Sick gold nugget

rlwfr · Post by **rlwfr** » 24 Mar 2003, 22:17

A week ago I bought a small gold nugget pleco (an L081, I believe) from the LFS and just when I thought it was finally adjusting to my tank, it got sick.

There are white cottony blemishes on various parts of its body and I suspect it is a sign of cotton-wool disease.

I've isolated the pleco in a hospital tank, but now what do I do? Any helpful suggestions would be greatly appreciated, I really don't want to lose this little guy. Thanks in advance!

Post by **Silurus** » 24 Mar 2003, 22:27

Sounds like a fungal infection, which is a secondary affliction. Are there any sores or scrapes on the fish?

rlwfr · Post by **rlwfr** » 24 Mar 2003, 22:56

It does not seem to have any sores or lesions on the body, but he is only around 2 or 3 inchs so its hard to see. Infections are in different places of the body and he is in with some tetras that would not harm him. Any ideas?

Post by **Silurus** » 25 Mar 2003, 08:47

Tou can try a salt bath, although it might be necessary to treat the primary cause of whatever led to the fungal infection.
Is the fish displaying any other symptoms (e.g. odd behavior)?

rlwfr · Post by **rlwfr** » 26 Mar 2003, 20:15

The fish was swimming erratically a few days ago, but barely moves at all now. I've been treating the fish with a combination of Aquari-sol and Quick Cure, at the recommendation of a knowledgeable friend, but so far the response is minimal. My biggest concern at the moment is ensuring that the fish eats, because it is starting to look rather thin. Any suggestions?

der Ingo · Post by **der Ingo** » 27 Mar 2003, 05:11

If anything will get him to eat, it's zucchini. Just cut a chunk off and wash it thoroghly and rubber band it into the tank.