inflatable "bubble" in gills of my...

[galmase7]

kissing gourami. it had it in one side for the past 1.5 yr. Now, there's one on the other gill. as it breathes, it inflates then deflates...so on and so on. It doesn't seem to bother it, but i know if it pops or bursts, it could be bad...anyone know what this is and what i can do?

 

[sylvia]

I have never heard of this or seen it on any of my own fish but I would think that if it has been there for so long, it can't be causing the fish distress and is unlikely to be something you can treat anyway. I'd say to leave it be unless you see the bubbles enlarging. If that happens it may be a sign of an infection (though I find this difficult to believe if it's been there for so long). It could also be the result of a parasite or irritation due to bad water quality or chemicals. However, the fact that you say it deflates and inflates makes me think it is not filled with fluid. Just watch and only think about treating if they get bigger or pop. If they do pop, your main worry will be for a secondary infection.

 

[galmase7]

thanks for the response...if anyone else wants to take a stab at this, feel free...