Female Ram, Off-colour, Pale, Stringy Faeces

[nmonks]

Hello --

I have a female ram that's been in my aquarium for around four months. Although feeding, she is usually very pale, and more often than not pale strings of faeces are hanging from her vent. She isn't obviously underweight but neither is she rounded and chunky as the male fish seems to be. She shows no interest in the male, and usually stays in the shady parts of the tank whereas the male is constantly active and on show.

I'm guessing she has some kind of intestinal parasite or infection.

The fish are fed a variety of frozen and flake foods, with the rams taking primarily frozen bloodworms. The water conditions should be fine for the species... pH is 6.5, and the hardness of about 2 degrees DH. I keep the temperature at about 25 C. Whitespot has broken out a couple of times since the fish have been in the tank but this has been dealt with successfully as far as the other fish are concerned.

Any ideas or recommendations for treatment?

Sincerely,

Neale

 

[Seb R]

Definatly go for some internal parasite medication asap. I had pretty much the same symptoms once with a female ram, turned out to be TB, and a day or two after I realized it she died. Hope its not that bad, promt medication should sort anything minor pretty quick.

 

[fishing4exotics]

Sounds like your female ram has bloat. Treat with Metronidazole. Add some Epsom salt to the water. 2 Tblsp per 10 gallons. Good luck with your fish

 

[Katchan]

Another thing to add, if your other fish can take up the temp to atleast 28degrees C - rams prefer higher temps this will help her feel less stressed and thus help her kick whatever the main problem is when ever you medicate

Andrew