why is my oscar laying on his side all the time?

Question
Why is my oscar laying on his side all the time? He is barely moving or swimming.The tank he is in is a 50 gallon tank,the tank has been set up for 2 weeks now.The oscar is in the tank by his self.I can not understand why he does not want to do anything but lay on hisside and barely move.

Answer
Hi Denise;

He may be experiencing the effects of "New Tank Syndrome". Change 25% to 50% of his water right away. It reduces the toxins that will make fish sick. Be sure the new water is the same temperature as the old water and use a water conditioner too. Here is a link to my article on new tanks and what is going on in the tank while it breaks in;

http://www.xanga.com/Expert_Fish_Help

At Your Service;
Chris Robbins