New Maroon clown died

[ken6217]

I had gotten a new (very large) maroon clown about 8 days ago. He looked healthy when I got him. He ate from the beginning like a pig, and ate until about 3 days ago. His body looked good and color was good. No spots or marks etc. Even after he died his body still had no visible marks or discolorations. What I did notice a few days ago that he looked like he was opening and closing his mouth somewhat. He was just swimming in place behind the anemone and not going in it like he was. Does anyone have any idea what he may have died from?

Thanks,
Ken

 

[Hattie B]

meaning 'opening and closing his mouth' like he was gasping?

 

[ken6217]

I don't know. I couldn't say what that looks like. I did see him expell bubble of air the other day while he was picking food pellets on the surface that didn't sink. I doubt this would cause anything, would it
Ken

 

[Hattie B]

Well, it would be really hard to say, but maybe if he was gasping it culd have been something to do with oxygen.

Or he had a jaw problem. Like maybe he hurt it on a rock or something?? Of course, this is just speculation, but you never know.

Of course, could never tell if it was something internal unless a necropsy was performed.

I am not sure about the air bubble.

Do you have other fish in that tank that look fine?

 

[ken6217]

Hi.
I have a yellow and sailfin tang and another yellow stripe maroon clown. All are fine. The fish that died was new and maybe there was issues with her from the get go. Don't know of course.
Ken

 

[Hattie B]

Ya, its hard to say. Maybe she got into an altercation with the other maroon?

 

[ken6217]

Couldn't be that. The one that died was colse to 10 times larger. She was huge.
Ken