How to reduce stress during tank maintenance.

[jokerls240]

This is the best place I could think of to post this question, but feel free to move it to a better section:

Yesterday I decided it was time to to a quick water change and vacuum the substrate's surface. Then I installed a small, self-contained surface skimmer with 2 output nozzles that you can position to move water in dead zones. Also, I moved the output nozzle of the main filter to the opposite end of the tank.

Ever since then my tetras will cower under the driftwood any time I pass by the tank. The angels also hid for a little while yesterday, but soon remembered where the food comes from. ;D

Does anyone have any tips on reducing stress on your fish when changing water or cleaning the tank?

Maybe I'm just now noticing a more timid nature in the tetras compared to the angels.

[bunnie1978]

I don't do anything special really. But I will say, Angels DO NOT like strong current. I don't know about tetras though. I have seen the same behavior in my fish for a short time after doing a major water change, or moving them.

[jokerls240]

Neither the angels or the tetras seem to mind the extra current. The skimmer flows about 160gph, and that flow is along the back of the tank, reinforcing the existing current, just where water wasn't moving. I have reduced the flow to 75% or less in the main filter to compensate for the skimmer.

[angel]

When we clean the tanks we have our hands in there, a strange tube in there, new water in there--there are a lot of changes. Some fish react favorably to the change in water, and spawn. But diamond tetras are not as bold as angels, and mine freak when I'm cleaning. They get over it fast though--food does the trick! Turning the lights out reduces stress on fish--how about cleaning near lights-out time, and then let them have a nap and get over being cranky? Or give them a couple of bloodworms to make them forget. Comfort food

[jokerls240]

Good idea about working on the tank close to lights out, but that's 8PM. I guess that would be good for both of us. We'd all be worn out and ready to hit the sack. ;D

[jon carman]

Just don't make quick sudden movement when cleaning. I would do a very light feed every time I clean to get them associating you, cleaning and food together.