Leopard Guppy Laying On Substrate

[Laura.p]

Last night I noticed one of the guppies was laying down on the substrate.
It has a swollen stomach with the scales flared up underneath.
It swims a bit wobbly but seems to be eating okay.

Now it's laying on the bottom on a side.
I've put a dose of Interpet Ani Internal Bacteria today.

Pictures (apologies if it's poor quality, they're from my phone)

I don't have a new test kit so not sure on water stats at the moment.
It's a 180 litre tank.

 

[star4]

Move him to a smaller tank with a lower water level so he doesnt have to swim too far and continue with the antibacterial med. If the scales start sticking up all over his body rather than just underneath he has dropsy and the later stages, very difficult to cure them from it I am afraid

 

[Laura.p]

Unfortunately i don't have any other small tanks to move him too.

Is there anything I can do to keep him in the main tank but still care for him?
Maybe I could buy a breeding trap to put in so it's near the surface.

It's quite heartbreaking to see the other guppy stay near him as though he looking after him.
I've had them about 4 years now so they're doing well. =)

 

[Laura.p]

Never mind he's passed away now.

Need to get another friend for the other one.
How many do you suggest or is a pair enough?

 

[star4]

I am sorry, yes a breeding trap would have been ok, but with him passing so quick its sounds like it wouldnt of helped.

I cannot remember off the top of my head, it maybe worth asking in the livebearer section, but I think the best ratio is something like 1 male to 3 females with Guppies.