My swordtail

Question
I have 2 swordtails and 2 mickey mouse platties and 2 dalmation mollies in my 20 gallon tank. One of my swordtails stays up by the water filter in the corner. I am wondering if something is wrong with it. I recently lost 2 swordtails in the tank-they just died and I was wondering if I am doing something wrong, or what I could do to get the swordtail out of that corner. I just set up the tank this week. I have used some water treatments to set up the tank to remove the chlorine and ammonia. I have tested the ph and everything seems to be ok. Also, I put in some stuff for slime coat. Can you help me? Thanks.  

Answer
Hello,

You seem to be off to a good start, and you swordtail may just be shy, but there are a couple things you should check to make sure that your swordtail is fine.

First off, make sure you check nitrites and ammonia. Both of these will eventually peak in new aquariums and cause sick/dying fish.

Second, if those are not the problem, check your swordtail for symptoms of disease. This may include an obvious parasite or fungus, torn fins, bulging eyes, not eating, not swimming properly, swollen abdomen, loss of color, foggy eyes and more. If you see any of these symptoms, you can either buy the appropriate medicine or contact me again if you are unsure which medicine is appopriate for your fish's symotoms.

If everything seems ok with your water and fish, then he may just be adjusting to his new home. As long as he is eating he should be ok.

I hope this helps.

Regards,
Stephanie