Frantic Fish

Question
Hey, Rachel. I have a ten gallon tank with good water quality. In it I have a spotted cory catfish, 5 dalmation mollies which are growing up from babies, and two incubators of around fifty to sixty silver molly babies. I noticed recently that all of the sliver mollies are breathing heavily. A lot of of them rest at the bottom of the incubators, but come up to eat. My dalmation mollies swim around constantly at rapid paces, breathing a little more rapidly than normal. Last night, I noticed my water had dropped to slightly cold temperatures. Could this be the problem? My dad also suggested that it might be the excessive number of fish. I do realize that there are too many fish, but I can't get rid of the babies until they are one inch. We don't have any other tanks to keep them in, either. We do have an air stone running on full power. Thanks!

Answer
The sudden water temp changes can definately cause problems. Do you see any signs of a disease or parasite on any of the fish like: salt like spots, fuzzy marks, clamped fins, cannot balance, not eating, or other odd signs. If not, I definately suspect the water temp changes. If you can, I suggest getting a heater to keep the water stable. Also, the large amount of fish is also something that can be causeing stress to the fish. As you mention, however, there is not much you can do right now for that. However, considering the large amount of fish in the tank, do be ready for problems such as the fish being too stressed and even some not making it. Other than getting a heater, unless there is other signs, there is probably not much you can do besides getting another tank. I am sorry I cannot help more. If you need anything else or want to add something, please feel free to ask. Also, feel free to ask another expert their opinion, as they may know something more than I do.