Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I'm pretty new to platies, and I'm just wondering what is oing on with my fish. I recently got two gold twin stripe platies (about a week ago). I had three, but one died, and the guy at the pet store said it was most likely because my tank was too new. (it's been running for about 3 weeks, but I think I changed the water too often). Now I have two, which I'm pretty sure are both males. Ones a big robust strong looking fellow, and the other one is more thin and less deep chested. The smaller one will occasionally dash about the tank, flashing on shells and such, and then just sit on the bottom, or hide in the cave. they both eat like no tomorrow, but I'm just wondering what is going on with him?

Yeah, your tank is still cycling so it is not uncommon to lose fish during this time. It takes 6-8 weeks for a typical tank to cycle. If your fish is flashing, that is usually a sign of ich. Do you see any salty looking spots? It literally looks like your fish got dropped in a salt dish. Usually by the time you see this it is too late to save them, but you definitely shouldn't treat things you don't know for sure your fish have.
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Phishie
Site Coordinator

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."

I've already lost the first batch of fish to Ich, so I'm quite familiar with what it looks like, no signs yet. I turned the tank temp up a bit to 80, and I will most likely do a small water change tomorrow and get my water tested a the LFS.... thanks!

Its good you know what to look for. Hopefully your fish don't have it. Let me know your water parameters and how your fish are looking after the water change. It could just be stress from poor water quality (which is also due to your new tank). It is hard to diagnose things without actually seeing the fish in person. I try my best to help.
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Phishie
Site Coordinator

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."