fish swimming towards top

Question
I just recently moved my fish to a new tank. I feel like a new parent worrying....I have red belly pirannas.  they are swimming towards the middle/top of the tank. not that they are at the very top/surface, but they aren't down the bottom by the plants so I'm wondering why they are doing that??? are they not getting enough oxygen at the bottom? what should i do? i don't want to harm them. :(

Answer
Hi Laura.  Listen, did you cycle the new tank PRIOR to putting the fish in it?  This usually takes 4-5 weeks to do.  You can read about cycling at this website:  http://www.americanaquariumproducts.com/Nitrogen_Cycle.html

If you did NOT cycle the tank prior to putting the fish in, you are going to have to hope you can get them through this cycling.  I would suggest that you do a couple of things (I cannot promise anything though, this is because I am not there and cannot see them).  First, go to the pet store and buy a water conditioner called "PRIME".  Use 1 capful in the tank (if you read the directions you see that you can use up to 5 times the recommended amount).  This makes the nitrates and nitrates less harmful to the fish while going through the cycling process.  While you are there, buy a good Master Water Test Kit so that you can keep an eye on the water parameters of your tank (a MUST for any fish tank).  Test your water ever day.....and do small water changes daily to help water quality.  You'll have to do this throughout the cycling process time.  The Prime will help a lot though, as your fish won't be exposed to the toxins quite as much.

I hope this gets you through the hump.  You may want to add an airstone too, as this will help if oxygen levels are down.  I keep one in all my tanks regardless.  I just feel it helps.

If you have any other questions, get back to me.  

Good luck!!!     ;o)