On the other hand, a dead fish will not be breathing, and its gills will not be moving. Its eyes will be cloudy and may be sunken into the head. The fish's body will also be stiff, and it will not respond to touch.
How do you know if your fish is dead or just playing dead?
A fish that is playing dead will still be breathing, and its gills will be moving. Its eyes may be open or closed, but they will be clear and not cloudy. You can also gently touch the fish; if it is alive, it will respond by moving or twitching.