Handling Small Fish Deaths

So I haven't seen my 6line for about two days now and prior to that I've noticed him not coming out as much particularly for feedings and such. I'm almost sure he's passed on inside my aquarium within the rocks.

My questions is I can't visibly see the body. Should I tear apart the the rock work so that I can get his body out of there? Or should I let the CUC crew handle it and let what's left decompose? I'm concerned because I a small tank (29g), I'm not sure how much of a pollutant his small about 1.75" fish can cause. My CUC consist of roughly 15-20 blue legged hermits, 3 red legged, 1 coral banded shrimp, 10 netrite, 4 ninja star snails and about 10 astreas. Do you think they will handle this? Also concerning tearing apart the rocks, I'm concerned I'll end up putting my BTA on the move if shake up his home.

 

If its been two days he's probably already gone, the CUC will take care of him in no time. I'd just let it be and monitor for ammonia and nitrite, but I say you'd be okay.

 

+1 I agree. keep an eye on the params and be ready to do a WC if necessary.

 

You'll be fine..i've lost fish and not really notices until probably a week after it actually happened without any damage to the tank

 

Agreed.

I'd be confident that you have enough bacteria present to handle the load.

 

Thanks guys. That's what I'll do.

 

As long as you have plenty of flow you'll be fine. If it was a 10 inch tang, you'd better start looking.