Bristlenose keeps getting caught in the net

[nwnittany]

I've only moved the guy twice (once from the bag to the tank, and once from one tank to another tank). Both times, his bristles got caught in the damn net and I spent half an hour agonizing on how to get it untangled without hurting him...

Anyone else have this happen ? Any suggestions ?

The only thing I can think of is to not use the net and catch by hand/cup ???

[greatXpectations]

they have a self defense system...as you have already learned :)

the best way to move them is via cup, but ive used nets on all three of mine. im just very gentle with my movements and i dont rush them...

[Lady Hobbs]

You need to get a smooth net for him. They make them from different materials for fish like that.

[graceluvsplatys]

yeah, that sounds good, or you could prbly make your own net out of a smooth material. atach it to a chopstick and wah la!

[nwnittany]

Well, crap. I must have botched the move because the poor guy didn't make it. I guess there's always the chance I didn't pick a good one (he's only been home for 4 days).

I try to start new fish out in a smaller tank to give them a good look over and make sure they are OK, and then move them to their final tank (I used to do this with a small 5 gallon tank, but now do it with a 20).

I guess I stressed the poor guy out too much (I floated him and added water from the new tank slowly to the bag over about an hour or so before putting him in the new tank).

Only new him for a few days, but I could tell he was gonna be one I liked a lot. But, life goes on (oh wait, that belongs in that controversial thread...lol)...

[greatXpectations]

a[Only Registered Users Can See Links.] what a bummer! :(

[gm72]

Agreed that a smooth net is a necessity with any fish that has tender barbels.

[Lakea]

hmm, my BNs have never gotten caught in the net *knocks on wood* I don't have a smooth one, so I guess I am just lucky. When I catch him I just scoop him in and then place the net in the water and he swims right out. I hope to never have to net them again, but just in case maye I need to change nets.

Sorry to hear your BN didn't make it, they are such neat little fishies...

[KingFisher]

Sorry to hear about your fish. Mine also got caught in the net when I tried to release him into the tank. I had to gently work him out of there. I'm hoping I don't have to move him again, but if I do I am going to try a cup or something instead.

[TorqueWorks]

nwnittany....sorry about your loss. When I moved mine, I just picked up the piece of wood he was attached to and transfered them both at the same time.