oscar swimblader disorder

Question
QUESTION: I have two oscars in a 100 gal tank.One of them has been floating on it's side with it's right side  out of the water.With alot of effort the fish can right itself and somewhat swim a few strokes,then floats again. I don't know what to do and don't want it to suffer.Please can you help.

ANSWER: Hi Sue,
 It could be that the other oscar has been attacking that fish. Is that a possibility?

-- Ron
  rcoleman@cichlidresearch.com
  Cichlid Research Home Page <http://cichlidresearch.com>


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: It seems to "protect it" I've never seen it attack but the other fish will swim/stand still by the injured one.the injured fish is horizontal at the top of tank w/its sidde exposed to the air. What can I do to help him?

Answer
Hi Sue,
  It is unlikely that the one is protecting the other.  It is much more likely that it is actually bothering it.   You should separate them.

-- Ron
  rcoleman@cichlidresearch.com
  Cichlid Research Home Page <http://cichlidresearch.com>