Cory Sterbai - White Mouth

[ChrisRodgers]

Hi,
 
I have six cory sterbai and I have noticed the two of them have white around their mouths. I have had them for approximately 8 months.
 
 
My tank is two thirds aquasoil and one third sand... 
 
They both seem to have lost a barbel. Any tips on how to medicate/treat this would be much appreciated.
 
Many thanks
 
Chris

 

[Byron]

Barbel loss can occur from rough substrate or bacterial.  The substrate in the photo is likely the issue, as it is too large and angular.  I know from experience how quickly a "plant" substrate can destroy cory barbels.
 
Remove the corys to a tank with just sand, something like play sand is ideal as it is very smooth and they can sift it through their gills.  Whether or not the barbels regenerate I cannot say; sometimes they do, sometimes not.  I would not use any medication/treatment, unless this worsens, such as fungus.  Clean water and removing the problem is often all that is needed.
 
Byron.