Hey Annie,

I can understand your feelings. It's hard having a sick fish (I know)... despite all the good care you are providing him... it still can happen.

Can you also check for velvet? This is best seen with a flashlight. However, in some cases of velvet, not all the symptoms described in the linked article are present. So you may consider adding RidIch+ OR Maracide to the antibiotics you've begun treating with. RI+/Maracide are antiparasitics and can be safely used in conjunction with these antibiotics you're using. I hope you are able to get to fish/pet store as soon as possible. It's always good to have these on hand too.

Is there any bloating/scales lifting all over this tetra's body? If it's just in the belly region... that could indicate constipation. Did this bloating occur slowly over time or within days? If this is looking like constipation... withholding food for 3-4 days and follow with some frozen/thawed/shelled pea is the first plan of action. This shouldn't be difficult if he's not eating. How long has he been without food now? If the bloating isn't confined to the tummy area... then we may be looking at dropsy.

Any new additions to the tank (including plants)? Were they quarantined? It's also possible a viral or bacterial infection has been introduced to the tank. Have there been other illnesses/deaths in the past in this tank?

Since you've begun the MI/MII - please continue for at least one full round - don't skip any days between doses or rounds, and I would suggest adding the antiparasitic.

The fact that he's not eating may be a more worriesome sign but hopefully we can turn him around quickly!

Michele

Last Edited By: Mattsmommy2 Sep 28 08 6:19 PM. Edited 1 times.