pond fish

[kikimon]

Hi , my goldfish in my garden pond are all sticking there heads above the water as if they are trying to breath. we have a pump going so why are they doing this?

[pjm007]

Maybe they are hungry, maybe they are feeding on insects on the waters surface.

[kikimon]

they are not hungry as there is food in the pond and it only started to happen from yesterday. still puzzled here lol

[ratbag66]

Have you tested the nitrate levels/pH/ammonia etc - the water may be well oxygenated but still be of poor quality.

[moomoojaj]

It is that time year again where everything starts coming to life except the bacteria that balances the ponds natural equilbrium(low water temperature does not help). I agree with ratbag66, maybe there is is a peak in your ammonia/nitrate levels. Get yourself a test kit to check the levels. If they are high I suggest water changes(de-chlorinated water only) to reduce the high levels. Although Goldfish are very tough creatures they do need some tender loving care. Look at their dorsal fins. If they are erect then they things are not too bad but if their fins are clamped to their bodies, carry out water changes ASAP as things are not right.

[kikimon]

thanks ratbag and moomoo, i will certainly test the water out. the fins are ok at the moment but i will keep an eye on them from now on.