Why do fish pick up gravel?

Function. Fish move gravel or rocks that will fit in their mouths in order to check for food or algae growing on the rocks, to create a spawning nest or by accidentally swimming into it.

Why do my goldfish act like they are starving?

Our fish look to us for their food and care. Over-feeding degrades water quality, creating stressful conditions that lead to disease and possibly death. Fish will always act like they are hungry. Over-feeding can reduce their quality of life by forcing their body to build up fat deposits.

Why do goldfish dig holes in gravel?

Some fish dig into rocks, or other substrate, to create spawning pits. These pits serve as a nest for the fish, where they can lay eggs. Other families of fish, like sunfish, also practice this reproductive behavior. If you see your fish digging a pit like this, it can mean that they are preparing to spawn.

Why are my fish eating at the bottom of the tank?

One common cause is improper water temperature. Other possible causes are overfeeding and improper water quality. Sitting on the Bottom: If your fish is spending lots of time at the bottom of the tank, it may be normal behavior. Many fish, like catfish, are bottom-feeders and spend their time there.

How do you know if your goldfish are getting enough food?

To find out the right amount to feed them, stick with the two-minute rule. This simply means you should avoid giving your goldfish more food than they can eat in two minutes. What is this?

Why do goldfish dig in the gravel?

Which is better for goldfish sand or gravel?

For example, many species of cichlids need sand substrate in order to thrive since eating particles of sand help them digest food. Goldfish, on the other hand, risk suffering from an intestinal blockage if they accidentally ingest sand and so should always be housed in gravel substrate.

How do you tell if my goldfish are fighting or playing?

If you notice one goldfish chasing another goldfish all the time, or biting them, then they are fighting. If this is happening in your tank, you’ll need to do something about it.

How do you tell if a goldfish is stressed?

Strange Swimming: When fish are stressed, they often develop odd swimming patterns. If your fish is swimming frantically without going anywhere, crashing at the bottom of his tank, rubbing himself on gravel or rocks, or locking his fins at his side, he may be experiencing significant stress.

Why is my goldfish sitting on the bottom of the tank?

Usually goldfish sit at the bottom of the tank due to not feeling well for some reason. Improper water conditions, parasites, stress, GI problems, and swim bladder problems can all cause a fish to sit at the bottom of the tank.