follow up question

Question
Hi David,
Thanks for your answer I have got 5 live plants in the tank and an undergravel filter with airstone, an air curtain across the back of the tank and a filter.  They were the first fish I put into the tank after it had been cleaned out so there wasn't much fish dirt to clean out.  The tank is at 24 degrees c.  However, they were chased in the shop and I also noticed the woman handle them with her bare hands.  I bought 7 fish and they were all put into the same bag.  Could this be the root of the problem.  Also what shoul my nitrate level be as the kit that I bought said anything under 40ppm is ok.
Thanks again
Kath

Answer
Hi Kathryn:  yeah... it sounds like the woman at the pet shop stressed them out beyond their limit.  I don't know why people try to pick up fish...it really messes with their protective coating as well as freaks them out.  Nitrate should be zero... but there is always some in the tank... hope this helps... dave