freak-out

[emi-chan]

i was just wondering what is the best thing to do (if there is anything you can do) when fish decide to have a little freak out in the tank, racing round and swimming sideways into gravel and such and what might be causing these freak outs. they just go crazy for a few minutes and then settle down eventually

[Diana]

Some Loaches seem to do this a little more than other fish, though I suppose any fish might.

I would take the precaution of making sure everything in the tank is safe in case they bump into it. No sharp decorations, well planted ends and back of the tank for cushioning.

[emi-chan]

when my loaches freak out its not so bad since they dig into the gravel but when the goldfish freak out its a bit more spectacular!
at least i know i've done the right thing since i dont have any sharp ornaments in the tank and i put in some nice leafy plants in as cushions!
thanks!

[loachmom]

Do they appear to be trying to scratch their sides or gills on the gravel?

They may have some parasite that is bothering them. Ich and flukes can hide in the gills and cause irritation.

[emi-chan]

no signs of parasites or anything like that...i was thinking that it was sudden changes in something like light or noise level... i know weather loaches can freak out when the pressure drops quickly...i wonder if there's anything like that for goldfish too.