Fishies getting stuck on my powerheads...

[Silvansaria]

So today I went to Aquatic Warehouse. Got 3 Sapphire Damsels and a Filefish (I mention those because they're the focus of this discussion)...

So 2 of the Damsels got stuck to the side of one of powerheads within a couple hours, as did the Filefish. Back in the day - I've also had some Sailfin Tangs get stuck to the side of them as well...

I know some people say: "only fish on their way out get stuck blah blah blah" - yeah that's not the case. They were all healthy fish, swimming and singing and dancing and BAM - sucked right into the side of it. I'm assuming they were getting bullied by the other fish or exploring and not used to their surroundings or I don't know but it is absolutely NOT them being unhealthy so just forget about that.

Isn't there some sort of mesh boxes you can build around powerheads or something to create a buffer area where this can't happen?

[cHRoNzZe v2]

What kind of pumps you running?

[SHCRIMPS]

There are 3d printed guards for several pumps you can get, if it was that then turn down the flow, if not
Get a separation box and keep new fish in there for a week or two so the others get used to them

[OhioStreetz]

Im gonna guess fish were wild and never been around powerheads and not use to the flow patterns put out. There is a ton of things that could have been put in place to acclimate the fish and seems to have not happened. Fish guards exist just google them and next time possibly lower the flow on them when introducing new tank mates for at least a day or two.

[Silvansaria]

...ummm I can't remember anymore. Wavemaker powerheads. I have a 150 gallon tank - so don't really want to turn down the flow. I just need a way to buffer the sides so fish don't get sucked onto them. I've been looking at foam coverings that leaves the output open - might try that.

[davocean]

I'd take the 3d printed over foam, not a fan of any foam or anything that collects detritus.
Just turn down flow on intro and a day or so, not all the time.
It does sound kind of odd as yes, usually this is only an issue w/ weak fish, so something is amiss, maybe post pics if you can.

[SammieT]

I'd take the 3d printed over foam, not a fan of any foam or anything that collects detritus.
Just turn down flow on intro and a day or so, not all the time.
It does sound kind of odd as yes, usually this is only an issue w/ weak fish, so something is amiss, maybe post pics if you can.

+1, i had to 3D print my own to make this stop happening
you can find them on eBay as well for whatever you need
ever since i printed mine, had it only happen one time but that was because he was a new added fish but since than, nothing


I've tried the foam, just be ready to clean it often