Big White Spot, Any Ideas?

[joshg]

Hello,

I've got a 3 foot tank with 10 very small fish it in. Havn't had any issues till now after i added 3 new tetra's (which have since died in the last couple of days). I've just noticed that another older fish has developed this weird white spot near its top fin. Anyone have any idea what it is?

The fish seem happy enough, swimming around and eating OK. I need to get some new tester kits tomorrow, so not able to check water properly till then. Normally do a 25% water change once a month.

 

[*Fishkies*]

Looks like saddleback Columnaris...does it seem fluffy?

You will need an anti-bacterial medication. You could also try feeding an anti-bacterial food, that they may have at your LFS.

 

[joshg]

It was not looking fluffy when i first noticed it, but it is now. The fish is also having a bit of trouble swimming and is resting in the plants a lot.

 

[WILDER]

Yes saddleback columnaris goes along the back and down the sides to form a saddle shape.
Will need a bacerial med.
http/article.discusnews.com/cat-02/columnaries.shtml

 

[joshg]

Excellent thanks, i'll go get some meds. Is it better to seperate out this fish into a different tank before treating? Or treating the whole 3 foot tank incase the bacteria has spread to others?

 

[*Fishkies*]

I would separate him now. Unless you see others with the same symptoms. Also if you can lower your temperature to 74F degress as this will be harder for Columnaris to continue spreading.

 

[WILDER]

I agree turning temp down helps the bacteria not to multi so fast.

 

[joshg]

Temp is down to 74F, he seems ok. The other fish look perfectly fine so far.

The local pet shop recommended something called TriSulfa. Will that do the job?