Clamped fins is an indicator of sickness in koi and goldfish.  If the water temperature is warm they should be swimming around happily in groups and eating vivaciously.  Clamped fins could mean that there is one (or more) of several different problems present, ranging from water quality to parasites. 

First Aid Steps:

1. Test the Water for Ammonia, Nitrites and pH.
2. Change Out Most of the Water and Don't Forget to Add De-Chlorinator if Necessary
3. Turn on All Fountains, Waterfalls and Aeration Equipment

Find the Cause:

First rule out poor water quality.  Test the water for Ammonia, nitrites and pH.  If there is any reading of ammonia or nitrites the fish are experiencing burning of the gills and/or the effects of nitrite poisoning.  If the pH is higher than 8.0 they are feeling yucky from water that is not comfortable to them.  If the pH is lower than 7.0 chances are your pond has experienced a pH crash but it hasn't gone so far down YET to kill the fish.

If the water tests indicate no problem with water parameters they could have parasites.  Have you added any new fish to the pond within the last few months?  Are they exhibiting other signs of having parasites such as scraping themselves along the bottom or sides of the pond, head-hanging, gulping for air or excessive jumping?

Rule out the obvious.  Have you made a water change recently and forgot to add de-chlorinator?  Have you treated the water with an algaecide or clearing agent within the last 24 hours?

Lastly, check the gills of the fish and see if they are ragged, discolored or have dead spots.  It could be bacterial gill disease.

Choose the ONE statement below that best fits the situation:

• Tests show I have ammonia and/or nitrites in the water.
• My pH tests extremely low.
• My pH tests high.
• Dummy me!  I changed the water and didn't add de-chlorinator.
• I just did a water treatment and I think I overdosed my pond.
• My water parameters are fine but I added new fish less than a month ago.
• No ammonia or nitrites but they are scratching themselves or showing other signs of parasites.
• No ammonia but I checked the gills and they look like hamburger or show signs of trauma or injury.
• None of these fit my situation.  Take me to the Diagnostic Clinic.

Items You Might Need:

Master Liquid
Drop Test Kit

Doc's De-Chlorinator

© copyright, 2008, PondDoc.com.  Reproduction or use of any content on this website prohibited without written consent from PondDoc.com.  This advice is given free of charge and serves as information only to help you with determining the cause of fish health problems.  The content given is to be used as guidelines only.  By following the guidelines on our website you are agreeing that we will not be held responsible or liable for any losses.  We cannot diagnose your specific case.  We are simply forwarding the benefit of our extensive experience with koi and goldfish health.