How I KILLED Almost All MY Fish

We all have terrible experiences at one time or another regarding our fish. I was hoping it would never be this bad. I'll show you what went wrong with my 240 gallon African cichlid tank, Alcatraz -- the HUGE mistake I made and how I am dealing with it. Please be kind with any comments. Thank you.
Cichlid Charmer is dedicated to sharing the joy of keeping African and American cichlids and sharing information about them. Much of my content is not cichlid specific, however. It also pertains to all tropical fish aquariums. I will share what I have learned about cichlids, and everyone is welcomed to comment with their own experiences and information about cichlids and aquarium practices in general.
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My aquarium equipment:
BREEDER BOX: www.amazon.com...
FILTERS: Fluval Fx6 a.co/d/aXJEx95, Fx4 a.co/d/e0V8DEx, and 407 a.co/d/5xAvD0S
WAVEMAKERS: Uniclife Aquarium 1058 GPH Adjustable Wave Maker a.co/d/22lHK38, Uniclife 3400 GPH Controllable Wavemaker with W-40 Controller a.co/d/8lMLgC7
HEATERS: EHEIM Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater 300W a.co/d/boZEKaJ
TEMP CONTROLLERS: Inkbird ITC308S Temperature Controller for Aquarium a.co/d/4r1rZWo, Inkbird Heating Thermostat Aquarium Reptile Submersible Probe Sensor ITC306T
WATER CHANGES: SICCE Ultra Zero 793 GPH - Water Pump a.co/d/aJGsjAl, 50ft x 1" ID Clear Vinyl Tubing, Flexible Hybrid PVC Tubing Hose
LIGHTS: Fluval Sea Marine 3.0 a.co/d/i1sbwy9
FOODS: Northfin Jumbo Formula a.co/d/cPy1Kq8, Northfin Fish Food 3 mm Sinking Pellets, 500 g , Cichlid Formula a.co/d/4dAHkvb , Northfin Veggie Formula 3mm a.co/d/5rGGIyi, Frozen krill, Garlic Guard a.co/d/dJpwWIA, VitaChem a.co/d/9kdjnrs
LUBE FOR FILTER GASKETS: Super Lube 93003 O-Ring Silicone Grease, Translucent White a.co/d/dwKwCR9
Check out this playlist:
• African Cichlid Genera...
#cichlidcharmer #aquariumhobby #aquarium

[@CichlidBros]

Really sorry to hear about the losses. Always a very tough part of the hobby. You’ll get back at it soon I’m sure! 👊🏻

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you so much. I not discouraged, but just very, very sad. I hope you guys never go through this!

[@CichlidCharmer]

This is so difficult for me. I feel like I’ve lost some family members. If you feel like shaming me, I will appreciate any kindness during this terrible time for me. Thank you ❤ UPDATE: I have 12 remaining inmates, and I have moved them back to Alcatraz. Zeke and Gary, my two favorite fish included. I love them all though. Some are still breathing rapidly, so I am hoping I didn’t permanently damage their gills with the short time they were exposed to the chlorine. Thank you all for the incredible support - I did not expect to receive such a huge, positive response, and it has really helped to encourage me during this terrible time. ❤️ And special thanks to Ryan, from Squatch’s Cichlids here on KZbin for helping me figure out the best way to handle this after I moved everyone to the 75. You are an outstanding fishkeeper and friend.

[@SADUTTAQUARIUM]

Semoga masa sulit anda cepat teratasi. Dan saya akan membuat akuarium cichlid juga saya tertarik dengan video anda

[@dannyaquatics]

❤

[@SoberBangBangVeteran]

Sorry broski. I get it.

[@andyjackson682]

No shame, just human error, it happens to all of us.

[@HUNTERHUNTER806]

I feel sorry for you dear brother... I completely feel what you must be going through... I felt the same too bro. Fish dying makes me feel like I lost my family members 😢😢😢 I hope you will recover soon... I wish you good luck and I pray that none of your beautiful fishes will die anymore.... Best wishes brother 🙏

[@mtkremer]

So sorry for your loss, thank you for sharing the story as difficult as it may be. This can happen to any of us, and hopefully this will help all of us think through our own process. Hang in there, rebuild and keep sharing great content!

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you! I think it’s helpful to share these nightmares without getting too graphic, especially when it happens to someone else.

[@juliekaewest]

Thank you for sharing this. As a relatively new fish keeper it’s refreshing to see someone like you show how mistakes happen, and should be treated as learning experiences. I’ve lost fish and shed tears because of it, but each loss has taught me a valuable lesson. I am sorry for your loss, truly.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you so much. I’ve rebounded nicely and have some cool things going on. I appreciate you!

[@MakoyUnggoy]

A tank full of tetras is sad but a tankful of cichlids that have personality, character etc is on a whole other level...me and the wife were hoping our favourite big fella survived and were gutted when you put him up last...Keep going, mistakes happen, we are human. Keep us updated please

[@CichlidCharmer]

Making me cry all over again here. I loved that guy. So cute. Thank you so much!

[@seansmith6372]

You're right I have tetras and their personality is generic nothing close too cichlids or Oscar's for that matter but I still tear up if my tetra die because I feel like they depend on me to keep them alive, their life is literally in my hands and responsibility and I don't like feeling like I let them down.

[@tjautocross]

You don't deserve any shaming. None of us is immune from making a mistake and losing fish. It's very sad when this happens. Sending positive thoughts your way!!

[@SWIFTPASSAGE]

Exactly

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thanks!

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you!

[@scotp6362]

What a devastating loss! Love and hugs to you! Thank you for sharing the journey!

[@CichlidCharmer]

Definitely, and I feel it’s good to share the good and the bad.

[@Sampennyyyy]

Hey man, so i actually can relate to this, because the same thing happened to me, i lost a lot of my African Cichlids during a water change, and it was because i forgot to put declorinator in the water. Long story short i left the hobby for a few years because it just killed me. However today, i now have a tank full of African Cichlids that me of a few years ago, could only dream of. Keep your head high, and know mistakes happen and being forgetful happens to the best of us. This is an amazing opportunity to educate everyone watching, You will bounce back, and in the long run, unfortunate events like these, make you all the wiser. I hope you are able to recover the fish who were still alive in this video, best of luck!

[@CichlidCharmer]

Aw thanks so much. So you know the pain. I’m glad you’re back in it. I lost a few more of those that were questionable, so now I have just over ten, but one is still having a hard time. Again, thank you for the kindness!

[@Sampennyyyy]

@@CichlidCharmer The good thing is you didn't lose everyone, and im sorry to see some of the unwarranted abuse you've had to take as a result of this. Accidents like these are never done intentionally, its a shame people have no heart...

[@michaelmcclendon3220]

I dont know if I'm getting soft or what but man im tearing up over here. This channel was slowly becoming my favorite mainly because of alcatraz and the amazing narration that you provide us. I've even tried to scape my tank to mimic yours. Man im sorry this has happened to you.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you, Michael. I am going to really miss those guys. I am placing an order for new inmates tomorrow that will hopefully bring some new wonderful characters.

[@oscardean6351]

Mate, I’m welling up and I’ve never even seen your channel before although I am now a prescriber. I really feel for you. The fact all your fish had names shows how much you cared for them. I wish I could give you a hug😢

[@CichlidCharmer]

I can’t tell you how much that means to me. Thank you, Oscar!

[@nandhubt90]

I am sorry for your loss. We learn from our mistakes and sometimes it costs us more. Don't be sorry or be guilty for what happened, perhaps it's time to stream line the process for example having a printed checklist and maintaining a log to avoid repeating it in the future. I wish you luck for the remaining chaps.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you, and you are absolutely right!

[@dadthings167]

Dang man... This cuts deep. Sorry for your loss but can't wait to see your bounce back. Ray was my favorite... I have a yellow lab that I bought from petco for 3.99 my girls named him bumble bee... He's still with me six years later... My first cichlid. Ray was the mbuna hanging in there tough with those open water peacocks and haps. The Mrs loved alcatraz

[@CichlidCharmer]

Aw thanks man. I can’t believe Ray is gone. So weird how they become much more than just fish. I’ve kept fish since I was a kid and never felt loss like this. These guys are/were special. Thank you, sir 🥰

[@dadthings167]

​@@CichlidCharmer just showed the Mrs the video and she teared up. Know we appreciate you for all the excellent content you put out there. Oxymoron I know... But get some rest... Keep us posted 🤦🏿‍♂️ hope the 75 is going well.

[@jrawles87]

@CichlidCharmer, just now seeing the video. Been a long work week for a truck driver. So, so sorry to hear about what happened. When you started the video tribute, the first thing I said was "I hope my man Ray made it" I guess being I have my Mbuna tank I'm kind of tight on my man Ray. When he came up there I slumped in my chair. He kept the bottom tier of Alcatraz in check. If you decide to get more fish, get another Mbuna in memory of my main man Ray and call him Sonny. I'm sure you'll build Alcatraz back up. You were talking about changing Alcatraz over in one of your videos. Maybe this is something to look into. Whatever you do, I'll be pulling for you. Peace my Brother

[@CichlidCharmer]

This was an awesome comment to read. First of all, thank you for that! I was so sad for everyone that died, but the two hardest hitters were Furc and Ray for me. I stil can’t believe they’re gone. So I am going to put this in your hands - I was thinking of naming my new yellow lab (yes I am getting one for sure) Icarus, after the guy that flew too close to the sun. Do you prefer Sonny?

[@ethanfriedersdorf]

It happens man keep your head up only thing we can do is try to learn and do better. If you are on city water sometimes they change things up and it can definitely kill off fish

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you!

[@LeeBo318]

Sorry for your loss brother...stay strong! I would say hit the tank with some aquarium salt, it should help draw out anything that's within them. It won't hurt to try it, the tanks could use the salt from time to time anyway. I hope this helps and wishing you the best with the rest! 🍻

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you 🥰

[@davidolsen3209]

Sorry for your loss. You always had the gorgeous fish and the gorgeous tanks. Hopefully you can bounce back from this

[@CichlidCharmer]

Oh I will bounce back. I can be sad and not let it alter my course. Thank you!

[@DjPosey3]

So sorry for your loss keep your head up, you'll bounce back, It's like you said we've all made mistakes and we'll grow and learn from it

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you!

[@thenelsonbruhs722]

Man this is rough. Even losing 1 fish is enough to kill me. Really sorry to hear about this bro

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thanks man. Yeah one is tough, but it doesn’t stick with you like this. I feel like I’m living in a daze.

[@thenelsonbruhs722]

@@CichlidCharmer I get it bro. Just remember that all you can do now is everything possible to preserve your surviving fish. That’s the best you possibly can do right now

[@CichlidCharmer]

@@thenelsonbruhs722 I’m definitely doing that. Thanks man ♥️

[@PlainsPup]

So sorry to hear about this. Here’s a related story: I remember years ago, I learned the hard way to use only specialty aquarium supplies. I used a brand new kitchen sponge, which turned out to be permeated with chemicals. At the time I had an established tank with an Oscar, Jack Dempsey, convict, jewelfish, and green sunfish. By morning, all the fish were lying on the bottom, and I instantly knew why. I did a 95% water change, and that got rid of most of the poison. The cichlids made a complete recovery, but unfortunately the sunfish died. Lesson learned, made me a better fish keeper. All the best to you and yours, and keep growing!

[@CichlidCharmer]

Wow I can’t believe any of them made it, but I’m glad they did! Thank you for sharing that and for your encouragement 🥰

[@MrMrHassan]

Sorry for you loss, as i watching this I was praying that Furrc ll would not be on this list made me tear up up when i saw him. Again sorry for you loss I can only imagine what you are going thru

[@CichlidCharmer]

I’ve cried so many times for Furc including right now. I’ve called him so many names for missing his huge pellets I hand fed him, but he was such a good boy. Thanks brother 😍

[@DonnaDiane74]

I'm so saddened by what happened to your fish. You obviously take great care of your collection. Please don't beat yourself up. If there is a silver lining, it's that other fish will get to have a real home, whenever you decide to restock. 💙

[@CichlidCharmer]

Aw thanks. That sure makes me feel better. Already ordering new fish 🥰

[@yeoh22]

So sorry for your loss. I hope and pray that you bounce back from this. 🙁🙏

[@CichlidCharmer]

I will definitely bounce back. Thank you!!

[@tinabankston9599]

I lost 13 of my Fancy Goldfish to Epistylis in October. Been keeping fish 30 years and just didn’t know how to treat it. So sorry for your loss! Your fish were beautiful!

[@CichlidCharmer]

Oh no - epistylis is a deadly killer. Haven’t saved a fish from it yet. Thank you!

[@HapiPETSWM]

Last month I had a carbonate spike that I couldn’t control, saved 4 fish out of 17… broke my heart, but I’m happy I was able to save the few I have and very happy now to see them healthy.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Wow that is such a good thing to hear. Your positive attitude is awesome. I have moved through the sorrow and am applying my energy to saving the remaining 11. I am very grateful to you!

[@gianbarmanable]

Im so sorry for all your losses.its really sad when this happen..stay strong and positive..and sorry for that.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you - much appreciated

[@makiarn777]

So so sorry for your loss. I’ve lost a bunch of fish recently and it sucks. The music made this video even sadder. 😢

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you. Yeah I cried over and over when I made it. And you’re right - the music made it even worse for me too 😢

[@scottwalmsley3393]

sorry for your loss,one of the reason i never put water in straight from the tap,i use a ibc in the garage,but on a brighter note think about all the new fish you can now have...all the best scott

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thanks, Scott. Yep, I already have a list.

[@josiahbounderby3169]

So sorry for your loss. I just went through this losing almost 2 complete tanks to parasites and my own stupidity of not using a quarantine tank. It was very painful to watch them all suffer and die. Hang in there.

[@CichlidCharmer]

That is so sad. I feel for you, man. I hope you’re doing okay. I’m hangin in there and moving on. Thank you for your nice comment 🥰

[@adleonard7056]

Summed it up perfectly. If you make a mistake, grow from it! We're all still learning! I've kept fish for 30 odd years, Africans for about 20 and I still make mistakes. Recently I turned my heater off with the intent to clean it in about 15 minutes. I forgot about it, wasn't until the next morning I remembered I'd turned it off! Luckily big tanks don't lose heat very fast, and our house is really well insulated. Phew!

[@CichlidCharmer]

That would be so easy to do. I’m a big “oh I’ll remember that later” guy, and then I forget every time lol. I have to do it now!

[@rantsandreviews]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Over the last 40+ years in the hobby I have lost some fish here and there; including some that were very special to me. Keep your head up friend. It's all you can do.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you, and I will 😢

[@dascudder]

Oh man that is devastating. So sorry to hear about this, honestly it's beyond gut wrenching. WOnder if your water source got contaminated some how? You can usually get away with a number of minutes til you add the dechlorinator (I recall seeing KG mentioning it on one of his videos). If it helps bud, on water change day, I line up all my bottles on a table to be used: Tapsafe, Cichlid trace, Salts, Buffer... all of it. And as I use it, I put it away in the tank cabinet. May be the system to adopt. You have the most amazing tank fella, and the fish have a great home. Sucks, but overcome and adapt. Stick at it

[@CichlidCharmer]

I sure appreciate that Paul. It was definitely chlorine. Safe is usually my first step, but I started doing a time lapse and totally forgot. I will be using a checklist and your idea with the bottles is a wonderful one. I’m sure gonna miss those guys.

[@ranjit5212]

Sry for ur loss big brother.I m also hurt for u.I always watched them through u.Few month ago i lost my all fishes except 1.due to my mistake.so can understand ur situation.stay strong.rebuilt A beauty like them to pay tribute .

[@CichlidCharmer]

Never more encouraging words were spoken.

[@Zaotar1]

Lifelong fish keeper here, I’m so sorry for your loss, I once lost a tank of fish due to somebody else turning off the power and it was terrible. It can happen to anybody, with just one glitch, so don’t beat yourself up and start anew.

[@CichlidCharmer]

It’s tough isn’t it. Yep I will definitely carry on even though it’s hard to lose these guys.

[@andyse2008]

I'm sorry for your losses, I've experienced it too, almost 20 cichlids died because of the water, so I know how it feels, and thank you for sharing

[@CichlidCharmer]

Oh man, that’s sad to hear. Thank you, Andy.

[@acerholics]

So sorry for your loss. Same happened to me after a water change. I know the feeling. Hoping you bounce back from this! Definitely happens to the best of us. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽 Charmer!

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thanks! So you know the feeling. I’m already bouncing back. Super sad though. I didn’t think this would hit me this hard.

[@robc5520]

I feel for you mate. i lost 1 fish last week. That hurt me... I cant imagine how hard it was for you to loose almost 2 dozen.. Head up... dont change... Love your content

[@CichlidCharmer]

Yep even one is hard. This was unbearable, watching them die and being helpless to prevent it. Thank you so much for the kindness ❤️

[@loki8686]

I’m so sorry for the loss! I have lost an entire tank of juveniles to heater malfunction even though I knew I shouldn’t have used the untested used heater. I lost half my fry fish when I forgot to put dechlorinator. It is truly sad to see fishes go. We are human and make mistakes! I’m hope you bounce back soon and get back at it again.

[@CichlidCharmer]

So hard isn’t it. Especially when you don’t follow your own rules. I’m just plowing forward. Holding onto the pain but using it to make me a better fish keeper.

[@aqua.scape69]

Man, I am so sorry for your losses. Accidents happen man. You will bounce back. Thank you for your honesty. God Bless you brother. 😢

[@CichlidCharmer]

🥰❤️

[@nickzinne7103]

oh my goodness. I am so so sorry! you’ll bounce back! keep your head up.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you so much. I can’t believe how hard this is.

[@Jake-ur2wf]

I am so sorry, best wishes in getting the system back up.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you.

[@bstewthegiggenius]

Just wanted to say I love you videos. I’m very sorry for your loses I can say you very tough cause of how many you lost I would of been in tears just because these guys grow on us and become family. I feel your pain and I hope you can grow from it. Hang in there bud! Good luck to ya!

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you so much. It was VERY hard. I’ve never been so impacted by a loss of fish before. These Africans are so much more than just plain fish. They have personalities! Anyway, now that I have 12 new guys that is taking all my time and energy, which I am grateful for. Thank you again!

[@bpthakshak2166]

So sorry to hear about the loss😢 I too have come across this and couldn’t digest the loss for some days Watching your loved one’s die is the worst nightmare none should experience

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you, and it sure is. Fortunately I can be sad and still move forward with a positive attitude.

[@lukepransey7161]

Sorry about that dude it’s tough but please don’t beat yourself up. I had something similar happen when I added my bristlenose fry to a grow out tank, added a cycled sponge filter and it ended up not having enough beneficial bacteria, 1 day later so much ammonia and most didn’t make it. Also Getting some new fish will hopefully give you some joy that can help you heal! All we can do is learn and be better so keep ur head up !

[@CichlidCharmer]

Good to hear that - thank you for the encouragement 🥰

[@elementsoflife000]

Sorry about your loss. This is why i dont believe in doing over 50%water changes for african cichlids anymore, i have found african cichlids especially under 3 inches are way more sensitive to large water changes especially when the temperature is off. I live in the usa and use water from the tap. I havent used water chlorinator in a long time and my fish are fine and i havent had losses of fish ever since i switch to 50% water changes only.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you. That is an interesting idea. If something is off in the water, less of it would sure be a good thing.

[@hugoboss213]

Sorry for your loss. I had the same thing happen to me! Lost 6 big African Cichlids we are only human

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you so much 🥰😥

[@Aredubu]

Very sorry for your loss.❤ Thank you for sharing it with us and making it a teachable moment.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you as well. I sure appreciate your kindness.

[@nutmeggs]

❤😢 So sorry for your loss. Things happen and we are all human.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Many thanks 🙏

[@Aquafinity]

So sorry for your loss. Just know that things will get better soon. I will miss Ray for sure. I’ll be here to talk whenever you need it.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Oh Ray…. I will sorely miss that guy. Thank you 🥰

[@lakesidedreaming]

That sucks. Im pretty new to aquariums and already made a few mistakes. Lost a few, and for some reason when i do water changes i forget to turn heaters off ahead of that😬

[@CichlidCharmer]

Oh yes. Easy to forget. Make a checklist. That’s what I do now. Didn’t think I needed one, but when I’m making videos during water changes, I definitely do!

[@HUNTERHUNTER806]

I feel sorry for you dear brother... I completely feel what you must be going through...🙈🙉🙊 I felt the same too bro. Fish dying makes me feel like I lost my family members 😢😢😢 I hope you will recover soon... I wish you good luck and I pray that none of your beautiful fishes will die anymore.... Best wishes brother 🙏 Don't let it get over your head.. yeah.keep going. Humans make mistakes and there's no shame in it. It's only natural and unfortunate.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you! I am already moving on. All my energy is going toward saving the remaining 11. I’m sad, but I can still function.

[@HUNTERHUNTER806]

@@CichlidCharmer good luck and never give up.... Fish keeping is easy but absolutely not easy. High possibility we can screw up. Best wishes again..

[@GardenGuy1967]

So sorry to hear this. It can be a brutal hobby at times!! 😢😢

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you. I have since rebuilt and I love them even more. I still miss my old friends though 🥰

[@Gilsfishroom]

Sorry to see this mate. Good on you for having the guts to make this video.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thanks, Gil. I only did video when there was no need for me to do anything else.

[@johnnygiddo4617]

Brand new subsriber from Australia. Mate i feel for you. Hoping to watch you rebuild your stock, looks like you have an amazing set-up. Best of luck.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Australia - awesome! I appreciate the sub and kindness. Definitely Already working on getting new boys. Some familiar faces and some new. Gonna be exciting and sad as I continue to remember my old boys.

[@user-tm9kq2ry7s]

It isn't easy to witness the breaking of a bond. Sorry for your loss and I wish you'll have wonderful new collection

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you!

[@sd_Raiders]

I one time dosed my (neolamprologus multifasciatus) shelldweller tank with some algae killer chemical. I came home to all 100 of my shelldwellers dead. It shattered me. I felt like I just killed my dog. Took me a few months to get back into the hobby after that. I feel your pain 🙏 Don’t beat yourself up too much.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Ugh. Devastating. So happy to hear you came back though. I’m moving on. Still feel it, but it isn’t beating me. Thank you!

[@The_Mothzz]

Sad to hear , i can relate lost mine to ph crash . Hope it gets better best regards.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Most appreciated ❤️

[@DiscusNT]

I almost lost my Discus like this. My city randomly doses our water system with extra spikes of cloramine in the spring and fall. You never know when it is coming. Then this happens. Now I use a pretreated 70 gallon reservoir for my water changes to be safe.

[@razinfishes1918]

So sorry to hear about your fish Your tank and fish are so beautiful. I fully understand the pain a few years back I lost and entire tank full of fish and totally my fault I was so upset with myself.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Oh no - I hope you didn’t quit. Thank you for the nice comment!

[@razinfishes1918]

No sir never give up. Still running 4 tanks. Had 5 but gave my 100 gallon to my son.

[@pollylewis9611]

I'm so sorry for your loss, this must be so hard, never feel you need to be shamed, no you love your fish, and I can't think of another person who takes better care of them. Can't wait to hear if you get any strange results on the condition of your water. Oh, I typed a longer response but the Gremlins must have taken it......Just know don't feel shamed, we in this hobby understand, Hugs......Polly!

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you, Polly. It is extremely hard, but most of the comments have been very encouraging. I still don’t know if I missed the dose.

[@pollylewis9611]

Wow that's a tuff one, not sure I ever have come across chorine poisoning, does it affect fish that fast? I lost yet another Ram that was perfect last night this morning gone, this leaves me with the original first 4. Dang, wish there were away I could help with your pain and loss, memories of those awesome dudes and their funny personalities will be with you, and also those wonderful pictures and videos. Hang in there, just hang in there.@@CichlidCharmer

[@CichlidCharmer]

@@pollylewis9611 yep. Very tough. Sorry for your loss too. I’m staying away from rams for sure. Now I have a blown cycle in the 75 of course, which I was expecting. I can’t move any bio media from the original tank in case it was something besides chlorine. So I stole a little media from my wife’s tank, added Stability, and 4x dose of dechlorinator to neutralize the ammonia. Lots of surface agitation going since Prime will reduce oxygen levels.

[@pollylewis9611]

Sounds like you're doing all you can, how are the fish left doing any better, what a nightmare for you. As for me yup no more Rams for sure.@@CichlidCharmer

[@CichlidCharmer]

@@pollylewis9611 lots of them are swimming slowly, but breathing heavily. Not all at the bottom or top though. A few, like Zeke and the VC10 are acting like nothing happened. Eduardo was just strutting with one of the other tank’s OGs 😂

[@antoinettevanaswegen8988]

I just want to thank you for sharing as well. We have only just gotten our African Cichlid tank, so this information is so helpful to us. It can all happen so fast.

[@CichlidCharmer]

You’re just staring the journey - exciting times. Use a checklist for any type of maintenance.

[@TIMOTHYJAMES-wk2yk]

Man,that truly sucks....very sorry to hear it.

[@WillsAquarist]

Just wanted to add my sympathy with everyone else here you’ve given these fish phenomenal care while you’ve had them and things like this happen as tough as it is! Looking forward to seeing you rebuild.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Most appreciated. Thank you for the encouragement 🥰

[@WillsAquarist]

@@CichlidCharmer no problem it’s the least I can do for all I’ve learned from you and your content

[@dannyaquatics]

Oh my goodness I'm so sorry to hear about your fish loss. It can happen to everyone. Still I'm so sorry. I'll miss them also.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you so much, Danny!

[@vickicoon673]

Oh I just saw your video and I am in tears. 😢 I’m so so sorry. I know how it hurts….💔

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you so much, Vicki 🥰

[@michellethorpe8700]

Super sad for you! You had amazing fish and I really enjoy watching your channel all the way from Australia 🇦🇺 … I hope you come back soon with more fish 🐠

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you. I will definitely restock right away. I just need to make sure my water is good. Good new is that the best fish who ever lived is acting like nothing happened.

[@andyjackson682]

I’m truly sorry to hear about your loss. Think about setting up an automatic dechlorinator system. I bought 2 Beech Lane RV water purifying systems from Amazon and connected them together. They come with a 5 micron and .5 micron filter in 2 connected canisters. The .5 filter also has charcoal to remove chlorine and heavy metals from the water. I set the first one up with the filters that it came with. I then took the second one and removed the stock filters and replaced them with G.E. carbon charcoal filters thus causing the water to go through 3 carbon filters to remove any residual chlorine. They work great and I change out all 4 filters every 6 months. As added protection I also add in Fritz ACCR. But the system totally dechlorinates the water as is. One less thing to think about and stress over. Now if I could just get the water to shut off before it overflows when I get distracted.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Oh wow. Do you have a link? I don’t have a lot of room for more equipment though… thank you for the kind words and suggestion 😍

[@andyjackson682]

They take up very little space.

[@andyjackson682]

I also just sent you a friend request.

[@andyjackson682]

@@CichlidCharmer pictures sent to your Facebook page along with a friend request.

[@BrokeredWithAloha]

Such a bummer, man. As tragic as the loss was for you, I am looking forward to seeing what you decide to do with that tank moving forward. I heard you mention the idea of going a different direction with that tank altogether. I suppose this incident makes that tough decision a bit easier for you. Again, so sorry for your loss!😢

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thanks. I am sticking with my boys and if I do an American tank, it will be a brand new one. I’m trying to figure out how it could work. It’s a little tougher now, since the new fish are over $600.

[@BrokeredWithAloha]

⁠Yeah, I watched your follow-up video and was glad to hear that you are sticking with your Africans. I wish I could get my wife on board with the size of tanks you run. I managed to get her to agree to a 180g for my Black Widow Frontosas, various Synodontis Cats, and my Clown Loaches. I also have a 75g South/Central American tank, but my stocking options are more limited than I'd like. Thanks for putting out the content you do! Keep up the great work!

[@CichlidCharmer]

@@BrokeredWithAloha Thanks, Ben. Yeah I'm pretty fortunate. I think my wife is even going to let me go one up on the 240, actually. Oh yes. Your tanks sound great!

[@MamboGuy914]

That sucks sorry to hear that. I recently read a guy that lost 20 expensive piranhas because his City changed something with their tap water

[@CichlidCharmer]

Scary stuff. Sad days for that guy.

[@pinedita08]

Well, lesson learned, add the dechlorinator at the same time the tank is filling up gradually, I am so sorry for your loss men, they were such a bunch of beautifull cichlids that had a lot of time with u, doing the things correctly we can make sure we do not commit this kind of errors again

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you. I always put the dechlorinator in before I start adding water. Just got distracted with the video. Now I will use a checklist.

[@kentstabilit9541]

Sorry about this terrible tragedy . Your video homage to each fish was amazing and put fish on a whole other level of pets we love.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you. They are more than just fish to me.

[@zamoranojesus88]

I had my fish catastrophe 2 years ago, we had some painters working on the outside of the house. One of the painters decided to open the garage door where I had my fish, what I’m guessing happened that the chemicals being sprayed into the air fell in the tanks, basically lost about 500 fish and I just couldn't get over it. I was very sad to lose all my fish. I had to leave the hobby, sold everything I had, equipment, tanks, I gave things away. It was just devastating for me to remember all my good times in my fish room and all the hard work I put into it disappeared in the blink of an eye. I recently purchased a 60 gallon tank filling happy to return to the fish hobby. 🐠

[@CichlidCharmer]

Oh man, I can feel it. Just like I was there. You probably kept thinking, if I had just said keep the doors closed. But who would have thought they would open them! I’m so glad you’re back in it. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@SlimTim_dirty_aquatics]

So sorry for the losses, not just pets. I understand the pain. In words of Rafiki “either you learn from it or you run from it”

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you @SlimTim. Not running from it.

[@gregory7414]

Don't be too hard on yourself. It is sad, yes. You are an excellent fishkeeper! It was an accident I guess. It happened to be over 20 years ago, in my south American chiclid tank. I lost 11 of 16 fish in there. It was totally my fault. 100%. Now I use a check list and take my time. I try not to get distracted now, since then. So I learned from the mistake I made.

[@CichlidCharmer]

That’s it - learn from it and keep on going. I’ve made a nice recovery and modified my maintenance to reduce the risk of making mistakes. Poor guys though - I miss them. Glad you kept in it.

[@joel11211974]

I’m really sorry for your loss, I feel your pain, I’ve been there too

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you 🙏

[@danielcaruana4896]

Im gutted… im really sorry for your loss ! Unfortunately its part of hobby… make this experience make you stronger and better in fish keeping , im really sad about furc 💔 , hopefully your rebuild better then before !

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thanks, Daniel. I'm really sad about Furc, also. I do have an order coming soon from Ron's Cichlids that will give a lot of new characters to us.

[@lisak3931]

Man, I'm so sorry for your loss. It happens, but that doesn't make it better really. Praying for your peace.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you!

[@pauldavis5184]

You wouldn’t think a 20% water change even containing chlorine would cause that . Sorry for your loss

[@CichlidCharmer]

It was a 75% water change. Thank you ♥️

[@DonAlcombright]

So sorry to hear. Stay strong. I had a smaller but similar issue this weekend. I moved my 125g tank to the basement and lost 3 from toting them in the process of the move. I think my totes were too small so I felt awful.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Man I’m sorry to hear that, Don. It sure helps though to commiserate with others who have gone through something like this.

[@DonAlcombright]

@@CichlidCharmer absolutely. It’s tough but you move past it and learn.

[@anthonypride1302]

I'm sorry this happened to you brother! We all have experienced something like this and it sucks

[@CichlidCharmer]

🥰🙏

[@MightyMoran]

I cried when I watched this... I'm so attached to my African cichlids that I couldn't imagine. I have a shipment coming in that got delayed, and I had nightmares last night because of it. I am so, so sorry for your loss... 😢

[@CichlidCharmer]

Oh that is so endearing - thank you. I still tear up when I think about my boys who didn’t make it. I hope your shipment was okay!

[@antoinettevanaswegen8988]

This is so sad, so sorry about your pets that you've lost, it's a very hard thing to go through 😥

[@CichlidCharmer]

I sure appreciate your kind words.

[@annie-gracesmith774]

i'm so sorry about this :( this happened to me this morning, which is how I found this video. I went into my room this morning to check on my tank and 18 fish were dead, I'm devastated. I think it must've been an ammonia spike. I've done water changes with seacheam stability and seachem conditioner to save the remaining 3, they're struggling but moving more. It's really devastating as I upgraded my tank and clearly didn't give it enough time to cycle properly (I thought it would be ok as I added the filter media to the new filter but as its a big aquarium (biggest I've ever had so new experience for me) I assume they just take longer to cycle , so completely my fault. Really sorry to hear about this!

[@CichlidCharmer]

Oh wow I’m so sorry to hear about this. It really is devastating. Glad you were able to help PM a few of them. Hopefully they make it! I feel much better now about my own terrible experience since time has gone by. Keeping at it and modifying my WC process has helped me feel better as time has gone by. Keep at it and you’ll feel better too. Thank you

[@mowfast7463]

Aww man, I sure am sorry to hear this. Stuff can just happen in an instant. And you're exactly right no poing in beating yourself up but to learn from our follies

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you so much!

[@viv1d]

I'm sure somebody already commented but it is common for public utility companies to do extra chlorine dose around this time of year. I seen a bunch of people warning people on FB groups. Sorry for losses.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you!

[@reneeroberson189]

So sorry for your loss 😢

[@JustinSohail]

Man! I can feel you.😢 Stay strong buddy, It feels like you lost a part of your body when this kind of accidents happens to our pets.💔

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you, and yea it does.

[@eddiebell5181]

I've never seen your site but this video has turned up. You have my deepest sympathy for your fish but I guess finding out why matters more. Unless your water company is sending you swimming pool water I don't see it being the chlorine, you drink it after all. It may have upset the fish but killed so many I see as unlikely. I would suspect more it's the chemicals you added afterwards. They caused the problem... extra ones made it worse. To clarify... I've kept fish for over fifty years now and have never used a de-chlorinator ever, and I've done direct water changes and never lost fish. Except once... I set up a tank, put in a de-chlorinator and the new fish died... quite quickly. I only put in 3 endlers to see what would happen and it killed them. The ammonia was off the scale as was the nitrate... and it was new water, de-chlorinator and small fish... Because I've always set up tanks the same way I did what I usually do... new water from tap.. warm it through with the heater and add a small number of fish. Nothing died. I never use de-chlorinator. In a water change the old aquarium water should buffer anything from the new water... if in doubt get a couple of 5 gallon water bottles, add water, stand overnight and the chlorine evaporates off. Use that water. If heaven forbid it happens again... at the first point of distress stick an air pump on and turn up the aeriation to add oxygen to the water. I don't know what the water oxygen levels are. If you're curious I have an African cichlid tank I set up 2 years ago with a single species which breed constantly so lots of babies it has a simple canister filter and I've only ever topped it up I've never done a water change... Good luck.

[@zaccorkindale4909]

All my sympathy. I love your fish and I hope this can help you towards Furc III.

[@CichlidCharmer]

This is so appreciated, Zac - thank you so much!

[@oscarlindvall1053]

Sad, been fortunate enough to not have a mass death in recent memory(did have a catastrophy 15 or so years ago). It is what it is just hope the rest makes it. Nice montage of the fish at the end.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you so much

[@rafaelgonzalez4175]

I certainly feel that pain. I moved from a rental into a purchased home and the utilities were abrubtly transfered. My fish went 9 days without electricty and I was at work 7 hrs a day. Returning home to agitate my water and change 20 percent as I could I watch my fish slowly but surely lose the battle. By the time I was able to move all my tanks I lost 70 percent of my total stock. Years and years of fishkeeping and in less than two weeks. I have 7 of 10 tanks up and running 9 months later and getting new fish is great but the loss was greater.

[@CichlidCharmer]

That is terrible and you’re right - new fish are fun, but it doesn’t cover the pain of loss.

[@dbrown4752]

Im so sorry to hear that I can't imagine what I would do if this happen to me. Your doing a great job keep it up. Don't let this get to you.

[@CichlidCharmer]

I miss them terribly, but I will carry on! Thank you 🥰

[@SWIFTPASSAGE]

Oh man! I have a big cichlid tank like this. I'm really bummed I've been enjoying looking at them. My heart is broken for you. I'm so sorry. Non fish keepers don't understand their family.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you! You are so right. Talk to a normal person and they think oh, dumb fish. These fish are incredible and I really am sad they’re gone.

[@SWIFTPASSAGE]

@@CichlidCharmer Agreed! I have cameras on my tank when I leave to make sure everything is functioning.

[@dennispeleg7843]

I'm sorry you had to go through this brother. All we can do is learn and work through it pal. I learned in a similar matter with the heater with 24 fish. My venustus also survived. But you'll pull through this pal! I know it's a bad time, but have you been able to check water parameters afterwards to see if the cycle crashed also?

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you - sorry to hear about your tragedy as well 😢. I did check them and they are fine. I thought for sure it would have killed off my BB. Ryan, from Squatch’s Cichlids, told me the BB would be fine, and he was right.

[@dennispeleg7843]

@@CichlidCharmer that's good to hear you're doing good. Hey I know it's too soon but imperial tropical is having the black Friday sale. It'll put you in a better spirit to get back at it. Trust me, I went through it

[@CichlidCharmer]

@@dennispeleg7843 thanks! I have some fish coming from Ron’s Cichlids, but it’ll be fun to look anyway.

[@dennispeleg7843]

@@CichlidCharmer keep us updated brother.

[@bbaerga518]

So sorry brother, keep your head up!

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you, and definitely

[@rogerflores1577]

This has happened to me a few times in the past. I would do a 75% water change and it was like the water would lose oxygen. So what worked for me was heavily aerate the water surface with my power head facing up and that did the trick for me. Also I don’t do more than 50% water change anymore to not stress the fish. Good luck and sorry for your loss.

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you, and thank you 🙏

[@jc49fishniner4lif7]

I'm sorry to hear that 😢 I have no words brother

[@CichlidCharmer]

Thank you 🙏

[@joophuij2594]

I am very sorry for your loss. I think you are a fishkeeper that cares a lot about his animals and takes really good care of them and inspires others to do so as well. I dont think the disaster can be attributed to forgetting to put dechlorinator in the water. Fish can deal with quite high levels of chlorine. Chlorine can kill beneficial bacteria and that in turn can lead to your fish getting poisoned by ammonia. But even that will take at least one hour for your bacteria to get killed. I think your water was contaminated with another pollutant. There was probably nothing you could have done. Kind regards from the Netherlands.

[@CichlidCharmer]

I was thinking that originally, but then started to doubt. Like I said too, I was sure I had put in the dechlorinator right when this started. By the end of moving everyone, I could no longer remember anything at all. I have a bad memory, but I think the stress just exacerbated it. Now I have to figure out how to get my survivors back in there. I will have to buy a test fish. Oh and also start my cycle. Again.

[@CichlidCharmer]

And thank you for the very kind words!

[@adamsworlduk2012]

2 days ago similar situation happened to me in my cichlid tank... 1 dead and all on the floor and some lost their colours and gasping for air when I came back from work. 1st thing I check the water and my Nitrite was really high...so had to think quick, luckily I had a cycled spong filter in my planted tank and Immediately after an hour they started swimming and coming back to life, this was entirely my fault and I take full responsibility, change 2kg new media to my filter and both filters hold 4.5kg, and I did was done both filter changes and water changes all at the same time.... mistake learnt.... sorry for your loss bud😔

[@CichlidCharmer]

It is such a sensitive situation, keeping parameters, food, oxygenation, etc. There are going to be slip ups I know. Just sucks when they happen. Glad your guys made it!

[@brucecroft9262]

Hey my friend I just saw this video I'm a little bit late watching it, but listen everybody has tragedy and fish keeping and you absolutely are a very passionate fish keeper ,I love your videos you just keep your head up high we all make mistakes in life we learn from them. we do love our fish very much but things do happen you hang in there, I think you're an amazing fish keeper and keep making the videos and good luck in the future and I'm sure that is the only time that'll ever happen. Good luck to you and your fish tanks in room is amazing

[@CichlidCharmer]

You’re the best, Bruce ❤️🤘

[@brazzr]

A simple thing like having a kink in the hose which causes like a spraying sound will deplete all the oxygen in the water.