Osmotic Shock
Water-chemistry crash from sudden parameter shiftWhat does Osmotic Shock mean?
Osmotic shock occurs when fish are moved between water chemistries with significantly different TDS, pH, or salinity. Cell membranes burst from osmotic pressure imbalance. Common cause: dumping shipping water into tank (saltinity mismatch) or water changes with un-matched RODI. Symptoms: shimmying, lethargy, mass die-off in hours.
How is Osmotic Shock used in aquariums?
Common cause: dumping shipping water into tank (saltinity mismatch) or water changes with un-matched RODI. Symptoms: shimmying, lethargy, mass die-off in hours. Prevention: drip acclimation 60-90 min, parameter-match all replacement water.
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Frequently asked questions
What does Osmotic Shock mean in fishkeeping?
Osmotic shock occurs when fish are moved between water chemistries with significantly different TDS, pH, or salinity. Cell membranes burst from osmotic pressure imbalance. Common cause: dumping shipping water into tank (saltinity mismatch) or water changes with un-matched RODI. Symptoms: shimmying, lethargy, mass die-off in hours. Prevention: drip acclimation 60-90 min, parameter-match all replacement water.