Hi! I have an adult albino Oscar in a 55 gal tank. It's only fish mate is a 14 inch Plecostomus. Yesterday, I realized that he was gasping at the surface of the water. He has continued to do so and we have added a bubble stick to help oxygenate the water. I will be performing the necessary nitrite, nitrate, ammonia and PH tests today. My concern is that there won't be an issue with the water and that Oscar (a fairly suitable name, if you ask me ) has a parasitical or bacterial infection. I have some excellent aquarium and fish breed guides but I am certainly not qualified to diagnose my fish. So my question is how do I go about obtaining a diagnoses? I am a full time college student, so money is an issue. Is there a specialist I should call if need be? Or is there a less expensive alternative?

Thanks So Much!
Michelle

michelle wrote:


First thing is post the water readings and temperature, and also what kind of filtration you use.

we do need those test results so ASAP please

Also is the fish floating at the surface or is he gasping at the surface. Does he ever try to swim down but then float up?

It is unlikely to be bacterial or a parasite, most likely is swim bladder or lack of oxygen

Can you post a pic or even better a video

Has things improved since adding the air bubbles

Also your tank is only big enough for 1 oscar. You havent enough room for the plec. They are very messy fish and add loads to the bio load. If i were you i would rehome the plec