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Are you curious about how big Figure 8 Puffer Fish can grow? These fascinating aquatic creatures are a popular choice for many aquarium enthusiasts due to their unique personalities and appearance. In this complete guide, we will take a deep dive into the world of Figure 8 Puffer Fish and explore everything you need to know about their size, lifespan, tank setup, feeding, breeding, and common health issues.
Figure 8 Puffer Fish are a type of freshwater fish that are native to the rivers and streams of Southeast Asia. They are named after the distinctive figure-eight pattern that is visible on their body when viewed from above. These fish are relatively small, but they can make a big impression on anyone who sees them in action.
Whether you are a beginner or experienced aquarist, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to care for your Figure 8 Puffer Fish. So, let’s dive into the world of these fascinating fish and explore everything you need to know!
Keep reading to discover the secrets to keeping these amazing creatures happy and healthy in your aquarium.
Table of Contents show
Size Matters: Understanding Figure 8 Puffer Fish
If you’re considering adding a Figure 8 Puffer Fish to your aquarium, one of the most important things you need to know is how big they can grow. These cute and quirky fish are a favorite among aquarists, but their small size can be deceiving. In fact, Figure 8 Puffer Fish can reach a size of 3 inches (7.6 cm) in length when fully grown, making them larger than many other popular freshwater fish.
The growth rate of Figure 8 Puffer Fish is highly dependent on their environment, so it’s important to provide them with plenty of space to swim and grow. A tank size of at least 20 gallons is recommended for one Figure 8 Puffer Fish, and an additional 10 gallons for each additional fish. If you want to keep a school of these adorable fish, you’ll need a larger aquarium to accommodate their growth.
It’s also worth noting that male Figure 8 Puffer Fish tend to be smaller than their female counterparts, so keep that in mind when selecting your fish. Overall, understanding the size and growth rate of Figure 8 Puffer Fish is essential for creating a healthy and happy home for these delightful aquatic creatures.
Figuring Out the Size of Your Figure 8 Puffer Fish
| Age | Size (inches) | Weight (grams) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | 1.5 – 2 | 2 – 4 |
| 2 years | 2.5 – 3 | 6 – 12 |
| 3 years | 3.5 – 4 | 14 – 24 |
Figure 8 puffer fish are known for their small size, making them a great choice for small aquariums. Their size can vary depending on age, sex, and diet. Typically, adult Figure 8 Puffer Fish will grow to a maximum size of 4 inches in length. Males are generally smaller and slimmer than females.
It is important to note that a puffer fish’s size will not always correspond with its age. Factors such as water quality, diet, and tank size can all affect the growth rate of your puffer fish.
When selecting a tank for your Figure 8 Puffer Fish, it is important to consider the size of the fish when fully grown. While they are small, they still need ample swimming space and a well-filtered tank to thrive.
Factors That Affect the Size of Your Figure 8 Puffer Fish
While the maximum size of a figure 8 puffer fish is around 3 inches, there are several factors that can affect the growth of these fish.
- Diet: Proper nutrition is essential for optimal growth. Feeding a varied diet of live, frozen, and pellet foods can help promote growth.
- Water Quality: Poor water quality can stress fish and slow their growth. It’s important to maintain a clean and stable environment.
- Tank Size: A small tank can limit the growth of a figure 8 puffer fish. Providing a tank that is at least 20 gallons can promote growth.
- Genetics: Genetics can play a role in the growth of a figure 8 puffer fish. Some fish may have a genetic predisposition for slower growth.
By providing your figure 8 puffer fish with a proper diet, clean water, and adequate tank size, you can help ensure optimal growth and health for your fish.
Lifespan of Figure 8 Puffer Fish: What You Need to Know
Figure 8 puffer fish are fascinating creatures that can make great additions to your aquarium. Understanding their lifespan is important to ensure that you provide them with the best care possible throughout their lives. On average, these fish can live for 5 to 8 years in captivity, but with proper care, they can live for up to 10 years or more.
One of the key factors that affect the lifespan of figure 8 puffer fish is their environment. They require a specific tank setup and water parameters to thrive, so it’s important to ensure that you create a suitable habitat for them. Stress can also shorten their lifespan, so it’s crucial to avoid overstocking the tank or exposing them to aggressive tank mates.
Feeding is another important aspect to consider when it comes to the lifespan of figure 8 puffer fish. These fish require a varied diet that includes live and frozen foods, as well as algae and vegetables. Providing them with a balanced diet is essential to keep them healthy and prolong their lifespan.
The Average Lifespan of Figure 8 Puffer Fish
On average, Figure 8 Puffer Fish can live up to 5 years in captivity. However, with proper care and maintenance, some have been known to live up to 10 years.
Several factors can affect the lifespan of a Figure 8 Puffer Fish, such as water quality, diet, and tank size. To ensure your fish has a long and healthy life, it’s essential to maintain a clean and stable environment, provide a balanced and varied diet, and offer plenty of swimming space.
It’s important to note that while some fish may live longer than others, it’s ultimately up to the owner to provide the best care possible to extend their pet’s life.
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Figure 8 Puffer Fish
Water quality: The quality of water is a crucial factor that affects the lifespan of Figure 8 Puffer Fish. These fish are sensitive to poor water conditions, such as high levels of ammonia and nitrites, which can lead to stress and disease. To ensure a healthy and long life for your fish, it’s important to maintain good water quality by regularly testing the water and performing water changes as needed.
Diet: A balanced diet is essential for the health and longevity of Figure 8 Puffer Fish. These fish are primarily carnivorous, so their diet should consist of high-quality protein sources such as krill, shrimp, and crustaceans. Feeding them a varied diet of live, frozen, and dried foods will ensure that they receive all the necessary nutrients to thrive.
Tank size: The size of the tank can also impact the lifespan of Figure 8 Puffer Fish. These fish are active swimmers and require ample space to move around. A tank that is too small can lead to stress and health issues, which can shorten their lifespan. It’s recommended to keep these fish in a tank that is at least 20 gallons or larger.
Water temperature: Figure 8 Puffer Fish are tropical fish and require a consistent water temperature of around 78-82°F (25-28°C) to thrive. Fluctuations in water temperature can cause stress and health problems, which can shorten their lifespan. Investing in a good quality heater and thermometer is important to maintain a stable water temperature in the tank.
Compatibility: Figure 8 Puffer Fish are generally peaceful fish, but they can be aggressive towards other fish that have a similar body shape or are smaller in size. It’s important to keep them with compatible tankmates to avoid stress and injuries. Keeping them in a species-only tank is also a great option.
Stress: Stress is a major factor that can affect the lifespan of Figure 8 Puffer Fish. Factors that can cause stress include poor water quality, incompatible tankmates, overcrowding, and inadequate hiding places. Providing them with a suitable environment that mimics their natural habitat, such as adding plants, rocks, and caves, can help reduce stress levels and promote a longer lifespan.
By paying close attention to these six factors and providing your Figure 8 Puffer Fish with the proper care, you can help ensure that they live a long and healthy life in your aquarium.
Tank Setup and Water Parameters for Figure 8 Puffer Fish
If you’re planning to keep Figure 8 Puffer Fish as a pet, it’s crucial to set up the right tank environment. The minimum tank size required for one puffer fish is 20 gallons. However, if you plan on keeping more than one, a larger tank will be needed. The puffer fish require ample space to swim around, explore, and hide.
Decorations play an essential role in the tank setup for Figure 8 Puffer Fish. These fish love to hide, so be sure to include several hiding places in your tank, such as rocks, caves, or driftwood. However, avoid adding any sharp objects as they could hurt the puffer fish. Additionally, plants should be included as they help to create a natural habitat and provide hiding places for the puffer fish.
The water parameters for Figure 8 Puffer Fish are essential for their survival. These fish require a stable and clean environment to thrive. The ideal water temperature should be between 75°F to 82°F, and the pH level should be between 7.0 to 8.0. A high-quality filter and regular water changes are also necessary to maintain water quality. Be sure to remove any uneaten food to avoid ammonia spikes that could harm your puffer fish.
It’s essential to note that Figure 8 Puffer Fish are brackish water fish, meaning they require a mixture of freshwater and saltwater. The ideal salinity level for these fish is around 1.005 to 1.008 specific gravity. Keep in mind that the level of salt in the water needs to be monitored and adjusted regularly to ensure that it stays within the appropriate range.
Setting Up the Ideal Tank for Your Figure 8 Puffer Fish
Proper tank setup is essential for the health and well-being of your Figure 8 Puffer Fish. The following tips will help you create the ideal environment for your aquatic pet:
- Choose the right tank size: Figure 8 Puffer Fish require a minimum tank size of 20 gallons to allow them to swim freely and explore their environment. Make sure to also provide plenty of hiding spots, such as plants and decorations, to make your fish feel secure.
- Keep the water clean: Regular water changes are crucial for maintaining good water quality. It is recommended to perform a 20-30% water change once a week. Installing a high-quality filter can also help keep the tank clean and reduce the amount of maintenance required.
- Provide the right water parameters: Figure 8 Puffer Fish require slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 7.0 to 7.The water temperature should be maintained between 75-82°F. Make sure to use a reliable thermometer to monitor the temperature, and a water testing kit to regularly check the pH level and other water parameters.
Creating the perfect tank environment for your Figure 8 Puffer Fish can be challenging, but it’s worth it to ensure the health and happiness of your aquatic pet.
Water Parameters That Figure 8 Puffer Fish Need to Survive
If you want to keep your figure 8 puffer fish healthy and happy, it’s crucial to maintain the right water parameters in their tank. The following are some of the essential water parameters you need to pay attention to:
- Temperature: The ideal temperature range for figure 8 puffer fish is between 78°F and 82°F.
- pH: Figure 8 puffer fish prefer slightly acidic water with a pH range of 7.0 to 7.8.
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water with a range of 5-15 dKH is suitable for figure 8 puffer fish.
- Ammonia and nitrite levels: These should always be at 0 ppm. These compounds are toxic to fish and can cause health issues or even death if left unchecked.
- Nitrate levels: These should be kept below 20 ppm, and regular water changes can help to achieve this.
- Salinity: These fish are freshwater species, so they cannot tolerate high levels of salt in the water. Therefore, avoid adding salt to their tank.
It’s important to monitor these parameters regularly and make adjustments as necessary to ensure a healthy and stress-free environment for your figure 8 puffer fish. Keeping the water in their tank clean and stable is key to keeping them happy and healthy.
Tips for Maintaining Water Quality in Your Figure 8 Puffer Fish Tank
If you want your Figure 8 puffer fish to thrive in their aquarium, it is important to maintain good water quality. Here are some tips to help you keep your tank clean and healthy:
- Perform regular water changes: Regular water changes are crucial to maintain healthy water parameters for your Figure 8 puffer fish. Change about 20% of the water in your tank every 1-2 weeks to keep the water clean and clear.
- Test the water regularly: Invest in a good quality water test kit and test the water regularly to ensure that the water parameters are within the appropriate range for your fish. Keep a log of your test results to track any changes or fluctuations in the water parameters over time.
- Clean the substrate: Waste and uneaten food can accumulate on the substrate, leading to poor water quality. Use a siphon to remove any debris and uneaten food from the substrate during water changes.
- Do not overfeed: Overfeeding can lead to excess waste and can cause poor water quality. Feed your puffer fish only what they can consume in a few minutes, and remove any uneaten food to prevent it from decomposing in the water.
Regular maintenance: Regular maintenance of the tank and equipment is essential to keep your Figure 8 puffer fish healthy. Here are some additional tips:
- Clean the filter: The filter in your tank is responsible for removing waste and debris from the water. Clean the filter regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that it is functioning properly.
- Replace filter media: Over time, the filter media can become clogged with debris and lose its effectiveness. Replace the filter media every 2-3 months to maintain optimal filtration.
- Check the temperature: Figure 8 puffer fish require a consistent water temperature of 75-82°F (24-28°C). Use a reliable aquarium thermometer to monitor the water temperature and adjust the heater as needed.
By following these tips, you can maintain good water quality in your Figure 8 puffer fish tank and provide a healthy and thriving environment for your aquatic pets.
Feeding Your Figure 8 Puffer Fish: A Nutritional Guide
Understanding the nutritional needs of your figure 8 puffer fish is crucial to keeping them healthy and happy in your tank. These fish are carnivores, and their diet should consist of mainly meat-based foods. Providing a varied diet that includes different types of food is important to ensure your fish are getting all the necessary nutrients.
Choosing the right food for your figure 8 puffer fish can be challenging since they require a diet that is high in protein and low in fat. You can feed them live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, krill, bloodworms, and small pieces of fish. Pellets and flakes can also be given, but they should not be the only food source.
Feeding frequency and portion size should be monitored closely. Overfeeding can lead to health issues, and underfeeding can cause malnutrition. It’s recommended to feed your figure 8 puffer fish small portions twice a day, and only what they can eat in a few minutes.
Supplements and vitamins can be added to the diet of your figure 8 puffer fish to ensure they are getting all the necessary nutrients. Supplements like calcium and vitamin D3 are important for healthy bone growth, while vitamin C helps with the immune system. Always follow the instructions on the supplement packaging and consult with a veterinarian.
Observing your figure 8 puffer fish while feeding can help you understand their individual preferences and adjust their diet accordingly. It’s also important to keep the tank clean and maintain water quality, as poor water conditions can affect their appetite and overall health.
The Best Diet for Your Figure 8 Puffer Fish
Protein is key: Puffer fish are carnivorous, and require a diet that is high in protein. Foods like live or frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and krill are excellent choices.
Avoid overfeeding: It can be tempting to feed your puffer fish too much, but overfeeding can lead to health issues. A good rule of thumb is to feed your fish small amounts several times a day, rather than one large feeding.
Variety is important: Just like humans, puffer fish can get bored with the same food every day. To keep them happy and healthy, offer a variety of protein-rich foods, and occasionally mix in some vegetables or fruits.
Stay away from hard foods: Puffer fish have small, beak-like teeth that are not suitable for hard foods like flakes or pellets. These types of food can damage their teeth and cause health problems.
Be mindful of treats: While it’s okay to offer your puffer fish an occasional treat, too many treats can be harmful to their health. Treats like earthworms, insects, and small pieces of shrimp or squid can be given in moderation.
How Often Should You Feed Your Figure 8 Puffer Fish?
Feeding frequency is an important factor to consider when it comes to the health and wellbeing of your Figure 8 Puffer Fish. These fish should be fed small portions multiple times a day to mimic their natural feeding habits in the wild.
Younger puffers will require more frequent feedings, as often as 3-5 times a day. As they grow older, their feeding schedule can be reduced to 2-3 times a day. Be sure to observe your fish and adjust their feeding schedule as necessary.
It’s important not to overfeed your Figure 8 Puffer Fish as this can lead to health problems such as bloating, constipation, and swim bladder issues. Feed only as much as they can consume in a few minutes and remove any uneaten food.
Variety in their diet is also crucial for their health. Offer a mix of high-quality pellets, frozen and live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and small snails to provide them with a balanced and nutritious diet.
What Foods Should You Avoid Feeding Your Figure 8 Puffer Fish?
When it comes to feeding your Figure 8 Puffer Fish, it’s important to know what to avoid to keep them healthy. Here are some foods you should avoid:
- Live fish: While it might seem like a natural choice to feed your puffer fish live fish, it can actually be harmful. Live fish can carry diseases and parasites that can be transferred to your puffer fish.
- Dry food: While dry food can be convenient, it’s not the best choice for puffer fish. They need a diet that’s high in protein and moisture, which dry food doesn’t provide.
- Frozen food: Frozen food can be a good option, but you need to be careful about what you choose. Some frozen foods contain preservatives or other chemicals that can be harmful to your puffer fish.
- Human food: Your puffer fish may beg for scraps from your meals, but it’s important to resist the urge to give in. Human food is not a natural part of their diet and can cause digestive issues or even be toxic.
By avoiding these foods, you can help ensure that your Figure 8 Puffer Fish stays healthy and happy.
Common Health Issues in Figure 8 Puffer Fish and How to Treat Them
Ich: Ich, also known as white spot disease, is a common parasitic infection that affects many fish species, including Figure 8 Puffer Fish. Symptoms include small white spots on the fish’s body and fins. Treatment involves increasing the water temperature and adding medication to the tank water.
Bacterial infections: Bacterial infections can cause a range of symptoms, such as redness, swelling, and skin ulcers. They can be caused by poor water quality, injuries, or stress. Treatment includes removing the source of stress or injury, improving water quality, and adding medication to the tank water.
Fungal infections: Fungal infections can cause white or grayish cotton-like growths on the fish’s body or fins. They are often caused by poor water quality or injuries. Treatment involves improving water quality and adding medication to the tank water.
Constipation: Constipation is a common issue in Figure 8 Puffer Fish that can be caused by a poor diet or overfeeding. Symptoms include a swollen abdomen and a lack of bowel movements. Treatment involves fasting the fish for a few days and then feeding a diet that includes high-fiber foods.
Dropsy: Dropsy is a condition where the fish’s body becomes bloated due to fluid accumulation. It can be caused by poor water quality, bacterial infections, or other underlying health issues. Treatment includes improving water quality, adding medication to the tank water, and addressing any underlying health issues.
Identifying Common Health Problems in Figure 8 Puffer Fish
Physical signs: Watch for signs of bloating, color changes, lesions, or any unusual growths on the fish’s body.
Behavioral changes: Look out for changes in swimming behavior or appetite, such as lethargy or lack of interest in food.
Respiratory issues: Observe if the fish is struggling to breathe, gasping for air, or if there is any excessive mucus or slime on its gills.
Parasites and infections: Check for signs of external parasites, such as white spots or cotton-like growths on the fish’s body, or signs of infections such as redness or inflammation.
Tips for Preventing Health Issues in Figure 8 Puffer Fish
Maintain water quality: Good water quality is key to keeping your figure 8 puffer fish healthy. Make sure to keep up with regular water changes, and test the water frequently to ensure that ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels are within safe ranges.
Provide a balanced diet: Feeding your figure 8 puffer fish a varied and balanced diet can help prevent nutritional deficiencies and associated health problems. Offer a mix of live and frozen foods, and avoid overfeeding.
Avoid overcrowding: Overcrowding can lead to stress and increased disease susceptibility in your figure 8 puffer fish. Make sure to provide enough space for your fish to swim and establish territories.
Quarantine new fish: Before introducing new fish to your tank, it’s important to quarantine them to prevent the spread of disease. Keep new fish in a separate tank for a few weeks and monitor them closely for signs of illness before adding them to your main tank.
Treatment Options for Common Health Issues in Figure 8 Puffer Fish
If your Figure 8 Puffer Fish is experiencing health problems, there are several treatment options available:
Medications: Medications can be prescribed by a veterinarian to treat bacterial or fungal infections. Follow the dosage instructions carefully.
Salt Baths: Salt baths can help to treat skin parasites and infections. Dissolve aquarium salt in a separate container of water, and then add the solution to the tank.
Water Changes: Regular water changes can help to prevent and treat many health issues. Maintain good water quality to help your puffer fish recover from illness.
Breeding Figure 8 Puffer Fish: Tips and Techniques
Introduction: Breeding figure 8 puffer fish is a rewarding experience for fish keepers. These fish have a unique personality, and their distinctive markings make them stand out in any aquarium. Here are some tips and techniques to help you successfully breed figure 8 puffer fish.
Setting up the Breeding Tank: The breeding tank should be at least 10 gallons and have a pH of 7.2-7.A temperature of 78-80°F is optimal for breeding. Decorate the tank with plants and rocks to provide hiding places for the puffer fish.
Choosing Males and Females: It can be challenging to determine the sex of figure 8 puffer fish. The male has a slightly larger anal fin, while the female’s is rounder. Select two healthy fish, one male and one female, to breed.
Feeding: A well-balanced diet is crucial for breeding figure 8 puffer fish. Feed them a variety of foods, including live and frozen foods, such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. It is recommended to feed the fish three times a day.
Spawning: Figure 8 puffer fish are egg layers. The male will chase and nudge the female until she releases the eggs. The male will then fertilize the eggs. Once the eggs are fertilized, they will hatch within 2-3 days.
Caring for Fry: Once the eggs hatch, the fry should be transferred to a separate tank. Feed them small amounts of live food, such as baby brine shrimp, several times a day. Make sure the water quality is good, and the temperature and pH are consistent.
Creating the Ideal Breeding Environment for Your Figure 8 Puffer Fish
To breed Figure 8 Puffer Fish, you will need to create the perfect environment. The tank should be large enough to accommodate a breeding pair, at least 20 gallons, with plants or other decor to provide hiding places. The temperature should be kept between 76-80°F and the pH between 7.2-8.0. The breeding pair should be well-fed with a varied diet to ensure that they are healthy and ready to breed.
When you are ready to breed, remove any other fish from the tank and increase the temperature to 82°F. Provide the pair with a breeding cone or flat surface for spawning. Once the eggs are laid, remove the parents from the tank to prevent them from eating the eggs or fry.
It is important to monitor the tank regularly and ensure that the water quality is high. Use a filter to remove waste and perform regular water changes to maintain the ideal breeding environment. With the right conditions, your Figure 8 Puffer Fish will breed successfully and produce healthy offspring.
Top 5 FAQs About Figure 8 Puffer Fish Answered
Q: Are figure 8 puffer fish freshwater or saltwater fish?
A: Figure 8 puffer fish are freshwater fish that require a specific water chemistry and temperature range to thrive.
Q: How big do figure 8 puffer fish get?
A: Figure 8 puffer fish typically grow to be around 2-3 inches in length, making them a small and manageable species for home aquariums.
Q: Are figure 8 puffer fish aggressive?
A: Figure 8 puffer fish are generally peaceful, but they can become aggressive towards other fish if they feel threatened or if their territory is invaded.
Q: Can figure 8 puffer fish be kept with other fish?
A: Figure 8 puffer fish can be kept with other peaceful fish that are not too small to be eaten, as well as with other figure 8 puffer fish as long as there is enough space and hiding places for them.
Q: Do figure 8 puffer fish need special care?
A: Yes, figure 8 puffer fish require specific water conditions, diet, and tank setup to stay healthy and happy. Owners should do their research and provide appropriate care to ensure the well-being of their fish.
What Should You Know Before Getting a Figure 8 Puffer Fish?
Before getting a figure 8 puffer fish, it’s important to research their care requirements and ensure that you can provide them with a suitable environment. Figure 8 puffers require a lot of space to swim and explore, so a tank size of at least 20 gallons is recommended.
It’s also important to note that figure 8 puffers are carnivores and require a varied diet that includes live and frozen foods. Feeding them a diet solely composed of dry foods can lead to health issues.
Figure 8 puffers can be kept with other peaceful fish as long as they are not aggressive or territorial. However, it’s important to note that they have a tendency to nip at fins, so it’s best to avoid keeping them with long-finned fish.
How Do You Care for a Figure 8 Puffer Fish?
Tank setup: Provide a tank with a minimum size of 20 gallons for a single fish, with plenty of hiding spots and plants to simulate their natural environment.
Feeding: Offer a varied diet of live and frozen foods, including snails, shrimp, and small crustaceans, while avoiding toxic or sharp-edged items.
Water conditions: Maintain a water temperature between 76-80°F and a pH level of 7.6-8.4, with a hardness of 10-25 dGH and a salinity of 1.005-1.008 SG.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average size of a mature Figure 8 Puffer Fish?
On average, mature Figure 8 Puffer Fish grow up to 3 inches in length. However, some may grow up to 4 inches in length if they are well-fed and kept in an appropriate environment.
How long does it take for a Figure 8 Puffer Fish to reach its full size?
It typically takes around 1 year for Figure 8 Puffer Fish to reach their full size, which is usually between 2-3 inches in length. The rate of growth may vary depending on factors such as diet, water quality, and tank size.
What is the maximum size a Figure 8 Puffer Fish can reach?
The maximum size a Figure 8 Puffer Fish can reach is around 4 inches in length. While it is rare, some individuals may grow slightly larger than this if they are kept in ideal conditions with a proper diet and water quality.
Does the size of the tank affect the size of a Figure 8 Puffer Fish?
The size of the tank does not directly affect the size of a Figure 8 Puffer Fish. However, providing a large enough tank can help the fish to grow to its full potential as it allows them to swim freely and get enough exercise. A cramped tank can stunt their growth and lead to health problems.
Can a Figure 8 Puffer Fish be stunted in growth?
Yes, a Figure 8 Puffer Fish can be stunted in growth if they are kept in a tank that is too small or if they are not provided with a varied and nutritious diet. Stunted growth can also occur if the water quality is poor or if there are too many fish in the tank.
