Skunk Loach Behaviour

[starsplitter7]

I have had three skunk loaches for over 6 months. No major problems with them. I would have more if I could find them. I like their spunky behaviour. Mine are 2.5-3 inches and one is relatively easy going lounging in a cave looking for snails I gave them yesterday. But the other two are acting strangely.

Today we had a major temperature change so that our temps changed to the mid 70's day and the 50's at night. (Until today it was in the high 80's day and high 70's at night). I did a 50% water change today. I do large water changes a couple times a week, because when I started fish keeping, all that I read said large water changes were good. The water sits out and is conditioned. My fish like it, so that's what I do. My perameters are good.

The two skunk loaches acting funny are very brightly colored with the bottom fins bright orange edged in black, yellow tail fin. They are always this color, but usually dimmer. Overall body tinged purple. Ever since I changed the water, these two loaches have been tail to nose chasing each other in a circle. No clicking. Pushing against each other. Round and round they go. They switch direction. It does not look aggressive and neither are injured. Once in a while they break free and swim up side by side pushing against each other. The third occasionally watches from a distance, and my female dwarf puffer has been watching from the sidelines. She's very nosey.

The two skunks have been doing this for over an hour. Not one click. When these three squabble, they click furiously.

I absolutely must get a video camera. Augh!

Any ideas? This is my first fall with loaches other than clowns, and I wonder if our weather changes are making everyone go crazy. Don't worry, it isn't a bad reaction to the water change. All the fish are relaxed looking for dinner. The 2 skunks are the only ones going nuts. They have no interest in any of the other fish. I would think if they were boys fighting, there would be clicking and more aggression, but I do not know.

Thanks, Tanja.

[Tinman]

Little Brats is all they are Squabble like anything over nuthin'

Dem Skunks dey is the devil Bobby.......

[starsplitter7]

Little Brats is all they are Squabble like anything over nuthin'

Dem Skunks dey is the devil Bobby.......

Hey Tinman,

HeeHee, you made me giggle.

I love my skunks. I need to send a video because I don't think anyone would believe what model citizens mine are. Mine kept that pushing business up for about 1.5 hours, and now they are doing their normal twitchy, squirrely behaviour. Chasing, squabbling, clicking. . . . but they leave their tankmates alone and only harrass each other. They are all in beautiful shape.

Btw my ick issues are abating, but I won't let my guard down for another 2 weeks. I don't see ick in any of my tanks. Yea! One of the reasons for the large water changes.

Tanja.

[Rocco]

Yeah, I agree. Skunks are evil. But they're cute.