Pink Rash On Pleco

[blfoster]

I had this posted in the pleco section, but I was pointed here. Overnight this rash appeared on my pleco's head:

Does anyone know what it is and what I should do about it?
Thanks.

 

[KathyM]

Do you have a heater guard? I've seen a similar injury on a plec that burnt himself on a heater.

 

[blfoster]

Do you have a heater guard? I've seen a similar injury on a plec that burnt himself on a heater.

No, I've never heard of such a thing. I have this heater (the 50 watt version): http/petpress.net/details.php?id=32
It's never felt very hot when I've touched it, but I'm not sure what it takes to burn a pleco.

Should I give it antibiotics to prevent infection?

Thanks.

 

[WILDER]

Can you issolate him it looks nasty as you will need a bacterial med, don't know if it's me but he dosn't look to happy, though plecs do tend to have a grumpy face it's more his eyes.

 

[blfoster]

I do have a small hospital tank, but I think it's probably too small. He's about 5 inches long and it's only a 2.5 gallon tank. I'll probably have to medicate the big tank. Would you recommend any particular medication?

Some of his unhappiness could be related to being trapped in that net. It was a bit of a chase getting him in there too.

 

[WILDER]

Maracyn one and two just to be on the safe side, plus don't want to add a strong antibiotic as it will wipe the bacterial colony out in your filter.

 

[blfoster]

OK, I'll pick some up this afternoon. Thanks for the help.

 

[WILDER]

Good luck.