
Is my Oscar fish sleeping or extremely stressed during a water change? I’m really worried.
Hi everyone,
I’m really worried about my Oscar and could use some advice.
I’ve had him for about a month, and this morning was the first time I actually took him out of the aquarium during a water change. Normally, I just siphon out the old water and add fresh water without removing him. Today, I thought it would be better to keep him in a bucket while I cleaned the tank so he wouldn’t have to sit in dirty water.
After I put him back, he started lying in an unusual position. At first, I genuinely thought he had died, and I started crying. Then I read that Oscars can sometimes lie still when they’re sleeping or when they’re extremely stressed, so now I’m not sure what’s going on.
For some context, my aquarium is very basic. It doesn’t have any plants, driftwood, rocks, or other decorations—just water and the filter/pump. I’m wondering if the lack of hiding places could be making him feel even more stressed.
I’m attaching a photo. Does this look like normal resting/sleeping behavior, or does he seem severely stressed or sick? Is there anything I can do right now to help him calm down and recover?
I really love this fish, and I’m honestly scared of losing him. Any advice would mean a lot. Thank you.