New Percula Clownfish

[s & j fisher]

I just bought 2 new Percula Clownfish (wild) and after acclimating them & placing them into the tank, they don't seem to be doing much (they've been in for 3 or 4 hours). They've stayed in the same place together just kind of swimming forwards and back in the same spot. They arn't breathing rapidly, but they arn't breathing quite normal either. I've never had clownfish & this is our first attempt at a saltwater tank, so I'm wondering if this is normal for clown fish? Our Blue Hippo Tang seems to be doing just fine & swimming around as is our Foxface. I've checked the nitrates and everything and all is ok. Is this something I should be concerned about or am I just over worrying?

 

[bigarn]

if you acclimated them properly and all the water parameters are good as you say, it's normal behavior for them. it will take them awhile to adjust to their new environment..... percs are very territorial so don't be worried if they stake out 1 area and pretty much hang there.

 

[kroch3rd]

my clownfish did the same thing when i got it. Give it about 2-3 weeks, and then it should be fine. remember your taking a fish from its natural environment and putting it in a whole new place. it takes time

 

[sepulatian]

How did you acclimate them? What sized tank do you have? Did you have the lights on when you put them in?

 

[s & j fisher]

I acclimated him the way I was supposed to. 55gal. And yes, the lights were on - I know that it's best to keep the lights off during that time, but I completely forgot. They seem to be doing better this morning though.

 

[nigerian]

My two percs seem to have taken over the upper right side of the tank. They just kinda circle around and occasionally swim the entire tank.