Have you ever seen a clownfish laying on the bottom of the tank? Do you think something is wrong with the fish if it does that? In this article, I will be disclosing why the clownfish exhibit this sudden behavior and if it calls for concern.
Why Is My Clownfish Laying on the Bottom of the Tank? Clownfish laying on the bottom of the tank or aquarium might be due to disease, poisoning, or the necessary parameters and water conditions of the aquarium are inappropriate.
This kind of behavior is quite normal in the clownfish, in some cases indicating no ulterior motive. People get frightened most times when they witness a sudden behavior change. Sometimes that fear is justified because the fish may have a deadly disease.
Let’s look at the common reasons why fish exhibit this type of behavior
4 Reasons Your Clownfish Laying on the Bottom of the Tank
Listed Below are the main reasons why your clownfish is laying on the bottom of the tank
1. Swim Bladder Disease
As said before, laying on the bottom of the tank can be caused by different reasons. Though most of the reasons are harmless, we still encourage fish owners to be vigilant of their fish behavior; any persistent unusual behavior should be addressed. Because it might be poisoning or disease is causing the fish to be static, which may lead to death if no action is taken immediately.
A very good example of a disease most common in many fish is swim bladder disease which is not curable. The swim bladder is a vital organ in all fish as they can swim because of it. This disease can result in a damaged bladder and won’t function anymore.
Clownfish are omnivorous; therefore, they eat meat and plants. But if clownfish are overfed, it can cause swim bladder disease, especially if the fish cannot digest food properly. In a situation like this, you should reduce meals for a few days and only feed fiber.
Some medications can be given to a clownfish with swim bladder disease like, antibiotics that is beneficial if the cause of the problem is bacteria or parasites.
Swim bladder disease is a chronic disease; no treatment is available. You will have to bear the loss of your clownfish.
2. Ammonia Poisoning
If you observe your clownfish breathing heavily and rejecting food while laying at the bottom of the tank, then it is the best time to check for ammonia poisoning. Ammonia poisoning can lead to death and damage gills; it is a very harmful chemical.
Poisoning is one of the major reasons the water should be changed regularly. You can’t see ammonia in the water. It can only be detected by using an aquarium test kit; if it records high numbers, it’s time to take action. Start by changing the water regularly. Take out about 25% of water and repeat the same process for few days. It will help balance the chemicals and cycle your aquarium filter.
3. Size of the Aquarium
Another reason for this weird behavior could be related to the size of the aquarium. If your tank or aquarium is too small, the clownfish will most likely move to the bottom of the tank to find a suitable place to stay.
Most people mistake the idea that clownfish don’t need a large aquarium and get a very small tank. It would help if you took note that certain fish need enough space.
A gallon tank is not enough to keep your clownfish surviving for long. Instead, a 10-gallon tank will be perfect for one clownfish. Some species of clownfish will need at least a 20-gallon tank. The size of the aquarium is a very important requirement for raising a clownfish.
If you buy a small tank, it will surely restrict the movement of the fish. A large aquarium will provide lots of space with plants and decorations for the clownfish.
4. Water Condition
The water condition of the aquarium is very important to the health of the fish. The amount of oxygen in the tank depends on the water temperature. You may ask, what’s the best temperature for clownfish? Does it prefer warm or cold water? The favorable water temperature is cold because warm water cannot maintain oxygen as cold water.
Therefore, it is advised that you do not keep hot water in your aquarium; otherwise, your clownfish will move to the bottom of the tank to seek a cold place. Water with a temperature ranging from 72°F – 78°F is best for the clownfish.
According to various research, warm water can increase the fish’s metabolism, leading to deadly results. You can cool down the temperature of the aquarium by using an air conditioner or fan. It is also important to note that the water shouldn’t be too cold because it can negatively impact. Keep your water temperature stable so your fish will live happily in the tank.
Usually, clownfish, as well as other types of species, prefer to stay at the bottom of the tank. It is a normal behavior exhibited by the clownfish. Maybe it found a comfortable spot at the bottom of the tank. It would help if you were not worried as long as they don’t show any sign of sickness.
Is It Normal For a Clownfish to Lay At The Bottom Of The Tank?
As I have mentioned before, you do not need to get worked up about your fish laying at the bottom of the tank. I have given a few reasons above stating why the fish may act that way. Rest is also another reason why the fish may dive down to lay at the bottom of the tank.
Just like we humans, we need rest; the fish also sometimes need rest. The fish will look for a suitable place to rest at the bottom of the aquarium. Therefore, if your clownfish isn’t showing any signs of disease or infection and every parameter and water condition is met, you shouldn’t be worried.
Laying On The Sand At Night
Sleep is another reason why your clownfish may choose to lay at the bottom, just like every other living thing we all need to sleep. Sleeping is very important for the fish. They need to sleep at night to refresh themselves for the next day; therefore, they often dive to the bottom of the tank.
You can also help the clownfish sleep comfortably by turning off the lights. If the lights are on, they may end up staying up through the night; then, in the daytime, they will dive down to sleep.
This reason indicates the clownfish is fine, and showing this behavior is understandable. This is a good reason it implies your aquarium and water conditions are perfect for the fish.
Do Clownfish Sleep at the Bottom When There Is no Anemone Present?
The ideal time for the clownfish to sleep is at night. The clownfish lying down still at the bottom or inside anemones. If you observe your clownfish sleeping at the bottom of the tank or hiding in anemone at the same hours during the day, there is no need for concern.
Unlike other fish that hide in nooks and crannies, the clownfish prefer to hide in anemones to get some sleep.
At night the clownfish settle within the tentacles. The anemone tentacles keep the clownfish safe, protecting them from predators, while in turn, the clownfish drive away butterflyfish that would eat the anemone.
Conclusion
Clownfish have unique habits and manners, making them different from other fish. And there are reasons why they behave in such a manner. It shouldn’t be a call for concern, and some are merely normal habits like sleeping or resting at the bottom of the tank, as long as there are no signs of any disease.
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