Can you overdo water changes?

[Dusk4t]

I've been doing 50% water changes twice a week on my 20-gallon planted tank, but my Neon Tetras seem stressed. Can you actually overdo water changes, or is it something else?

[lizzy]

Water changes are great, but 50% twice a week might be too much for a stable tank. Neon Tetras are sensitive to parameter swings. Test your tap water for chlorine, chloramine, and heavy metals. Also, check if your tank's pH and temperature match the new water closely. Small, frequent changes (10-20% every few days) might work better.

[oceanist]

Yeah, big water changes can freak fish out. I'd cut it back to 25% weekly and see if they chill. Are you using a dechlorinator? If not, that's probably the issue. Also, how's your filter? A dirty filter can mess with the vibe.

[dramatic]

Bro, 50% twice a week is wild unless you're running a high-stock cichlid tank or something. Neon Tetras don't need that. Try matching the temp and pH of the new water to the tank, and maybe add some Stress Coat. Your fish are probably just shook from the constant changes.

[shellelle]

I had the same problem with my Guppies! Turns out, my tap water had weird stuff in it. Now I let it sit overnight before adding it to the tank. Also, maybe your Tetras are just drama queens. Fish can be weird like that.

[Dusk4t]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try smaller changes and test my tap water. Didn't realize Neons were so sensitive.

[deep_tide]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try smaller changes and test my tap water. Didn't realize Neons were so sensitive.

Yep, Neons are fragile. I'd also recommend adding some Indian Almond Leaves if you want to soften the water a bit. They're great for reducing stress.

[oceanmist_9]

Another thing to consider is your substrate. If you're disturbing it during water changes, that can release toxins. Stick to vacuuming just the surface unless you're dealing with a serious mess. Also, how old is your tank? New tanks are more prone to instability.

[shengzi]

I don't know much about water changes, but my fish seem happy with 10% weekly. Maybe try that?

[lizzy]

I don't know much about water changes, but my fish seem happy with 10% weekly. Maybe try that?

That's a good starting point for low-stock tanks. For heavier stock or messy eaters, you might need more, but always prioritize consistency over volume.