Dead Fish

[iceboxman]

I was changing my substrate from crushed coral/shells to sand last night, and after I was done, one of my fish had changed colors and was breathing rapidly (stressed). I hoped it would go back to normal, but I found it behind a rock, dead this morning.
I never had a definite identity on it, but I believe it was a pseudochromis.

Well, now I can cycle the tank with less fish now. I wish I had found a good petstore BEFORE buying my fish.

[Alice]

Sorry to hear about your fish

It happens often, iceboxman; people get bad advice and then hit the net or cruise other stores looking for answers. Trying to play catch-up and set the system up more appropriately is difficult. Look on the bright side though, when you are done it will be a healthier environment for all your critters!

Alice

[Doug1]

Bummer on the fish loss Posibly released some nasty organics during change over, or the silt that went back into suspension may have overwhelmed its gills. Its always a good idea to put the fish in something else while switching over. When I moved my 55 into the 75 I also ran carbon and chemipure packets to adsorb any nasty DOS that might have been released.
Since you are in Vancouver I suggest getting in touch with Dave and Renae at Deep Sea Gallery. Nice folks , nes shop and support the area reef clubs

[iceboxman]

I would guess the silt reason, because the water was quite cloudy after changing it. Is it also possible that some sand could have hit it and hurt it?

I have been working with Deep Sea Gallery. I actually bought the sand from them, among other things. Fortunately, my other 2 fish seem to be doing ok.