My Fantail

Question
Hi There,
I'm pretty sure that my Fantail, Moe has swimming bladder disease. I've had Moe now for about 3 years and never ever had this problem until recently. The water condition is terrible-very acidic ( I've never tested it before until now) I've added (ph up) to the tank and will try to feed him peas.Shuld i isolate Moe from the other fish who are fine- 2 other Fantails and a goldfish? Will putting him into a new tank stress him out?
Looking forward to hearing from you.


Answer
Hi Kelly,
Putting PH UP in your tank is not the right way to go to bring up your PH.  It isn't good as you have to play around with this all the time making your PH fluctuate, therefore stressing your fish.  The best way to a higher PH is to buy a little bag of coral at the Pet Store, or maybe you can find Sea Shells at your Dollar Store.  Put some in your tank, little by little, checking your PH everyday.  If not high enough keep adding each day until you have the right PH.  Once you have the right PH, it will always keep it there, no matter the water changes.  Do this slowly, if you do this too quickly, you will put your fish into shock.
I would like you to write back to me, and tell me my you think you fish has Swim Bladder Disease.  If in fact it is Swim Bladder Disease, do not worry, it isn't catching.  I want to be sure before you medicate him.  It isn't good to medicate a fish for a disease he doesn't have, so I would like to be sure.  Goldfish living in acidic water was very bad for them.  
Have you checked your ammonia, and nitrates?  This is very very important.  If you haven't, you may buy these test kits at the pet store for a small sum.  They should be number one in your fish cabinet.  
Write back to me please, and tell me what I need to know, also tell me the size of you aquarium so I can help you more.
Lynda