What to Do When a Fish Dies in Your Aquarium

Like all organic life, aquarium fish will eventually come to the end of their primordial biological cycle, and this may happen for various reasons. The life spans of fish and invertebrates vary according to species and the conditions of their habitats. For example, goldfish born in a healthy pond can live for a couple of decades, but their life expectancy is reduced about 50 percent in a tank. Koi have a life span that can easily eclipse that of their owner, truly documented at up to 100 years of age. Betta fish only last a couple of years, and mollies can live up to four years. Some shrimp species can live a couple of years, but rarely more than five. Seasoned fish keepers expect that some of their species will die, but they pay close attention to their tanks and ponds to determine deaths and their possible causes. The staff at Aquatic Warehouse, a leading provider of saltwater and freshwater aquarium supplies, explain what should be done when a fish dies in your tank.

Keeping a Fish Count

Aquarists are expected to know their species count for various purposes. First of all, you shouldn’t overcrowd a tank. Second, you should know when a fish has gone missing. Tanks without covers can tempt some fish to jump out, so you should check the space around the tank first. Look around the plants, rocks, decorations, and filter elements in case missing fish are hiding. Not all fish float to the surface when they die. Some may get stuck in the filter element.

Dead Fish Should Be Removed Right Away

Even in a backyard pond that includes scavenger species, you should remove dead species as soon as you spot them. Once you find a dead fish or invertebrate, the first step is to remove it from the aquarium. The next step is to investigate and determine a cause of death and how it may impact the ecosystem. Scavenger species such as Plecostomus and shrimp will likely nibble at their fallen aquarium mates, but they shouldn’t be allowed to continue their feast for reasons that will be explained below.

Dead Fish Disposal

Thoroughly wash your hands all the way up to your forearms. Also, disinfect the fishnet and ensure it’s dry before insertion in the water. Once the dead fish is removed, wrap it in paper before placing it inside a sealed plastic bag or container that will go in the freezer. The frozen fish should always be buried and never flushed. Burials are the best ways to allow organic cycles to take place (without the plastic bag of course, which is great fertilizer too).

Mitigating Water Toxicity

The reason scavengers shouldn’t be allowed to fully consume dead species is because this process will increase ammonia levels. To this effect, you should check water quality right after removing dead fish. If the dead species showed obvious signs of trauma, check for compatibility so this doesn’t happen again. Fins and scales that may have detached from the species should be siphoned off, and this will be a good time to perform a 20 percent water change. Finally, think about the potential of harmful bacteria developing in your tank. If there are no odors or visible bacteria bloom, you may want to add probiotic bottled bacteria.

Even though all fish will die eventually, you can keep your pets as happy and healthy as possible for as long as possible if you maintain your aquarium on a set maintenance schedule. To care for your tank properly, you’ll need several essential supplies. From aquarium monitors and controllers to beneficial bacteria and protein skimmers, Aquatic Warehouse has everything you need. Take a look at what we have to offer on our website, and give us a call at 858-467-9297 if you have any questions.