Is it necessary to remove fish from the aquarium during a water change to prevent deaths?

3 min readAug 3, 2023

Regular water changes are a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy aquarium environment. However, many fish keepers have witnessed unfortunate incidents where their fish seem to die shortly after a water change. This has raised concerns and led to the question of whether it is necessary to remove fish from the aquarium during water changes to prevent such fatalities. In this blog post, we will delve into the reasons behind fish deaths after water changes, explore the necessity of removing fish during this process, and provide valuable insights on how to conduct water changes safely and efficiently.

Why do Fish Die After Water Changes?

Before we address the necessity of removing fish from the aquarium during water changes, it is essential to understand why fish deaths might occur after this routine maintenance task. Water changes involve altering the water parameters, such as temperature, pH levels, and hardness. Drastic changes in these parameters can lead to stress in fish, which, if not managed properly, can result in illness or even death. Furthermore, during water changes, fish might also get startled or injured due to sudden movements, leading to unnecessary stress and subsequent health issues.

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Is Removing Fish from the Aquarium Necessary?

The short answer is that removing fish from the aquarium during water changes is not always necessary, but it can significantly reduce the risk of stress-related fatalities. Fish are highly sensitive creatures, and even minor fluctuations in their environment can lead to distress. To mitigate these risks, it is recommended to adopt the following strategies during water changes:

Partial Water Changes:

Instead of changing the entire volume of water at once, opt for partial water changes. Removing 20–30% of the water at a time will help maintain a more stable environment, preventing drastic fluctuations in water parameters and minimizing stress on the fish.

Use a Siphon or Gentle Water Flow:

When draining water from the tank, use a siphon or a gentle flow to avoid disturbing the fish. A sudden rush of water can startle and injure fish, leading to stress-related problems.

Acclimate the New Water:

Before adding the fresh water to the aquarium, ensure it is at a similar temperature and pH level to the existing water. Slowly acclimate the new water by floating the container in the tank for some time. This helps the fish gradually adjust to the changing environment.

Remove Fish to a Temporary Tank (If Necessary):

In certain situations, such as when performing deep cleaning or substantial water changes, it might be best to transfer the fish temporarily to a separate tank or container with conditioned water. This approach provides a stress-free environment during the water change process.

Monitor Water Parameters:

Always monitor water parameters before and after the water change to ensure that the changes are not too drastic for the fish. Invest in a reliable water testing kit to assess ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and temperature levels.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while removing fish from the aquarium during water changes is not always necessary, it can significantly reduce the risk of stress-related deaths. Fish are delicate creatures, and even minor disruptions to their environment can lead to severe consequences. By adopting proper water change techniques, such as partial water changes, gentle water flow, acclimation, and monitoring of water parameters, fishkeepers can ensure the well-being of their aquatic pets.

Remember, the goal of a water change is to maintain a healthy and stable environment for your fish, not to create sudden shocks that can prove fatal. By approaching water changes with care and consideration for your fish’s well-being, you can enjoy a thriving aquarium with happy and healthy aquatic inhabitants. Happy fishkeeping!