Old Cherry Barb Dying?

[Plectoman]

Hey Guys,

One of my female cherry barbs is not looking good. I've had her for 5 years and she is starting to struggle swimming. The way she swims it looks like theres a weight attached to her tail and shes constantly fighting to swim upward. She still manages to eat but at times now I see her just resting on the gravel. Ive read the lifespan of cherrys is about 4-6 years. My waters conditions are fine ( O Ammonia, 0 Nitrite, 5 nitrate). All the other tankmates are doing great. Has anyone had experience with a cherry barb dying from old age? Do you know how much longer she can live like this? Thanks

[genocidex]

sounds like she might have a swim bladder infection of sorts

[Dennis Bissett]

agree, not swimming and getting slower is more a sign of debility from age (as with us) I'd be looking for some sort of infection or damage as well

[~firefly~]

At 5 years she may well be at the end of her life. You will need to think carefully about whether to isolate her for treatment or to euthanase.