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Sick gold nugget

Posted: 24 Mar 2003, 22:17
by rlwfr
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!

Posted: 24 Mar 2003, 22:27
by Silurus
Sounds like a fungal infection, which is a secondary affliction. Are there any sores or scrapes on the fish?

Posted: 24 Mar 2003, 22:56
by rlwfr
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?

Posted: 25 Mar 2003, 08:47
by Silurus
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)?

Posted: 26 Mar 2003, 20:15
by rlwfr
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?

Posted: 27 Mar 2003, 05:11
by der Ingo
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.