Dying Convict Cichlids

Question
Hi Lee,

Thanks again for helping out. The Aquasafe seems to be working a little at a time. But the levels are getting closer to normal. There is one more thing I'm concerned about: of the two cichlids I have left, one is alot larger than the other. The larger one has become a tyrant! The smaller one pretty much hides in inside the rock. If the smaller one comes out, the larger one chases it ruthlessly around the tank. In fact, when I tried to rearrange the plants a bit, the larger one actually bit me. Is this normal? I'm afraid the smaller one will stress and die, and I'm totally nervous about adding any others to the tank. Trust me, it's just my luck to end up with an abnormal tank - Thanks!

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Followup To

Question -
Hi Lee, The information is much appreciated. I stopped and bought a 5 in 1 water testing kit last night and from what I strips showed, all the levels were bad. At this point, would I empty the tank and start over or buy chemicals to remedy the present water? Also, since I've lost 3 and only have 2 fish left, is it possible to add new fish to the tank with the present convicts? Thanks so much for your help. Karen
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Followup To

Question -
Hi Lee,

I inherited five convict cichlids about a year ago. About a month ago, I lost one suddenly. Then in the past two weeks, two more have died. The strange thing is in the morning, they have all been just fine, eating normally and such. By the time I return from work, they are upside down in the bottom of the tank. Is there anything you might be able to help with to understand what may be contributing to them dying? Thank you! Karen


Answer -
Your situation could be caused by more than one thing. Have your water tested to make sure everything is at its correct levels, most retail fish store provide this service. Does your fish tank have an air source? Occasionally it will be assumed that the water movement from the filter is enough and that is not always true. If you do not have an air pump I would highly recommend getting one and hooking up an air stone to provide additional oxygen that may be needed by the fish. The other cause could be a disease but from what you have told I would guess water quality or oxygen levels are the causing your problem. When you have your water checked they should check for ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, and pH. Best of luck...

Answer -
Don't empty the tank.... or add chemicals both would have bad results. Do a 50% water change and add a product called aquasafe as this will be benefical to the tank. After a day or so test the water again and if the levels are still high do another 50% water change adding the aquasafe. Yes you can add new fish to your tank but when you do take a couple things into consideration... move the decoration/plants around to force the current fish to restablish their territory and make sure the size of the new fish are simular to the current fish and are compatible with South American Cichlids. If I can be of any further help don't hesitate to contact me. Best of luck...

Answer
It is normal for your larger cichlid to be the brat of the tank. This will continue and the smaller fish will either die from the stress or injury from being attacked. Get in touch with local fish retailers...usually smaller shops will either buy a fish like your little monster from you in exchange for others or may at least give the monster a good home so you can have a more "normal" tank. Cichlids can be little beasts, especially the larger South American Cichlids because they get so large. They seem to be completely aware of their size and use it to bully other fish.
You can also continue with 30-40% water changes to help your water chemistry get to where it needs to be also, just keep adding the aquasafe with the water changes.
Best of luck....