My Ryukin Woes - Swim bladder issues?

elloria · 07-26-2008, 05:08 PM

Well ive had this issue with him for a while now. Seems to be months. Ive tried soaking his food, fasting him nothing seems to do the trick. He constantly has issues with his swim bladder. The other two fish i have (red oranda and ryukin) are just fine and have never had this issue. He doesnt float upside down all the time. Thats only when its really bad. When hes having issues his butt floats to the top and he cant seem to get his barrings. Swims irratically trying to fix himself. Is there anything i can do to help him get better?

He is in a 28 Gallon fish tank. Tank water is clear and the current isnt too strong. I have one large tall plant in the back corner of the tank with two smaller ornaments on the bottom

http://files.filefront.com/fishes+00.../fileinfo.html
Here is a video of him swimming around a bit. Hes the black speckled one swimming around pretty fast

Judge · 07-26-2008, 07:25 PM

Welcome Elloria and glad you're here. When you get time you might go to the introduce yourself so we can learn more about your tank. I looked at your video, nice tank and very pretty fish. Apparently this is not a rare occurence for this type of fish. The swim bladder is a gas filled sack inside most fish which controls their buoyancy in the water. Problems with the swim bladder cause fish difficulty in swimming, and is common with fantail goldfish. Bacteria infections and air swallowing are thought to be common causes of swim bladder problems. Feeding a varied diet can help in prevention.

Swim bladder problems are not usually life threatening, however it can be a symptom of a more serious disease. If he is suffering badly for more than a day or two it may be worth using a swim bladder medication.

Some fish suffer regular bouts of swim bladder; the fish is uncomfortable but soon recovers. If, however, your fish constantly suffers with swim bladder to the extent that it affects the quality of life, and nothing helps, you may wish to consider seeking advice from a vet.

missfish · 07-27-2008, 03:52 AM

I had a goldfish once that had trouble swimming straight, I used to give him squished peas and it sent him straight!
All I would do is grab one out of the freezer defrost it in the tank water and then squeeze it in my fingers, my goldfish loved them.

Judge · 07-27-2008, 10:05 AM

I love this response...I would never have thought! I absolutely love the experiences of others and what works for them. Way to go Miss Fish.

Dr.Fragenstein · 08-05-2008, 04:18 PM

I agree, I've heard good results in a more "fiberous" diet and smaller feedings, other than that there isn't much you can do

RJRofFL · 08-05-2008, 05:08 PM

Hi elloria.

The video was great and your Ryukin is truly a handsome fellow.

For what it's worth, I've been told that your Ryukin is the Japanese version of the fantail, and that on fish farms they are often fed vegetation and sometimes need to make an adjustment to top of the water fed flakes. Although I'm sure in the wild they feed on insects on the top of the water, so that kind of dispells that.

At any rate, I understand that most goldfish are susceptable to swim bladder problems, not necessarily diseases. But most would agree that diet plays a key roll in addressing this.

I have heard of the "pea" method, as suggested by our great friend from accross the pond, and also I have heard green beans also.
I hope we have helped you and your finned friend here.

Please follow up and let us know how it goes.

Bob

elloria · 08-06-2008, 06:11 PM

Thanks alot guys i really appreciate all the great feedback. I do apologise its taken me a while to get back with you. My fishie is doing ok now he hasnt had any floating upside down issues since i posted. I have tried the pea method and it has worked before. I was hoping to find something a little more permanent but if i have to keep feeding them odd things i will hehe. I decided to try something a little easier to keep in the drawer below the tank and that was some gerbil food. Just the normal pellet gerbil food. I put him in my little containing thing (floating keeping cell for birthing fish/ sick fish) and i fed him the food. Next day he was fine. The petsmart in my area suggested that and seems to have worked as well. But i think they did it on purpose because that made me think of getting a furry friend so i got a hamster >.< hes so cute!

A few questions though.... Where do i post/introduce myself i looked around but i must be passing over that section. Thanks again everyone!

RJRofFL · 08-06-2008, 07:54 PM

Hello again, elloria. I'm so happy to hear your Ryukin is fairing better. It's also nice to hear you now have both "fin & furry" friends.

When you log onto this forum, the very first section is appropriately named "Introduce Yourself." By all means post there. We love to hear more about our new members.

Bob