Why do tropical fish lie on the bottom of the fish tank?

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Tropical fish stay at the bottom of the tank for long periods of time either because they are ill or because they're asleep.

Sleep

Although they do not have eyelids, fish sleep like any other creature. They often tuck themselves away in a tank corner or nestle against décor when they do this.

Lethargy

One of the key ways to tell whether your fish is sick or just sleeping is to watch for lethargy. If he is sluggish when he does move, chances are he is sick.

Gill Movement

Another sign of illness is rapid gill movement and "gasping," which is when the fish keeps opening its mouth to gulp water.

Discoloration

If the fish is not as brightly colored as usual or has dark edges to his fin, he is probably sticking to the bottom because he is sick.

Thrashing

If the fish experiences periods of wild thrashing in between periods of stillness, he is probably sick.

Clamped Fins

Your fish is probably sick if she keeps her top fins and side fins clamped close to her body while she rests on the bottom.

Source:

Pet Place: Do Fish Sleep?

Mongabay; Disease Treatment

AquariumFish.net; Fish Diseases

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Why do tropical fish lie on the bottom of the fish tank?

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