Can someone identify this for me???

#1
Hi Everyone,

I just recently treated my Bala Shark for Popeye and some body fungus, but it appears that the fungus has eaten through my Bala Shark. Is this a fungus? Or something more serious? I have attached a link to a photo of him. Can someone help me out on what I should do? I would appreciate it. Thanks!

My Poor Bala Shark

-Philippe
 

#5
Yeah it sure does seem like my bala shark does have that...However it recommends to treat the tank with Maracyn. And I am...And its not going away. *sigh* Very frustrating.

I think the most annoying thing is that I have spent over $50 on test kits and medicine for this bala shark that only cost $2. I know that's a mean thing to say, but I've only had this bala shark for like 2 weeks, and have had headache after headache. Ugh. Just frustrated. Sorry.

-Philippe

Originally posted by Leopardess
Hm. Could be flexibacter columnaris...


the syptoms fit it really well...

http://www.aquamaniacs.net/flex.html

I'd remove him to a hospital tank if you can arrange it, but if not, treat the entire tank with something specifically designed to treat this bacteria (which is mistakenly referred to as a fungus).

I hope you can help him out:(
 

Last edited:

Leopardess

Superstar Fish
#6
Are you treating with Maracyn I, Maracyn II, or Maracyn Plus? Often, you need both I and II or Plus to work...

You could also try another product...I've had some success with something by aquarium pharmeceuticals called "binox." Its is pretty cheap and is super strength - one teaspoon treats 25g for four days, I believe. You may want to try that. Just make sure to finish your treatment of maracyn for the full duration it recommends - you dont want to create any weird super-virus type things since it is a fairly strong anitbiotic.
 

#7
Leopardess,

I haven't just been treating with Maracyn. I'll try the Maracyn and Maracyn II, or that Binox. I dunno if Petco has that or not, we'll see though.

Also, do fish diseases spread to others in the tank? Part the reason why I am treating my whole 50 gallon, is so it doesn't spread to the others.

-Philippe

Originally posted by Leopardess
Are you treating with Maracyn I, Maracyn II, or Maracyn Plus? Often, you need both I and II or Plus to work...

You could also try another product...I've had some success with something by aquarium pharmeceuticals called "binox." Its is pretty cheap and is super strength - one teaspoon treats 25g for four days, I believe. You may want to try that. Just make sure to finish your treatment of maracyn for the full duration it recommends - you dont want to create any weird super-virus type things since it is a fairly strong anitbiotic.
 

bumblebee

Large Fish
Apr 8, 2003
192
0
0
44
Medina, NY
Visit site
#8
I saved two platies from that nasty disease and it is not fun :( I also used maracyn and maracyn II, but had to repeat the treatment at least twice (can't exactly remember but I know it was a long time). Here is a good website for a reference:

http://www.aquamaniacs.net/flex.html

Good luck, and beware that you need to do some water changes b/c maracyn will eventually kill your nitrifying bacteria too (unfortunately flex and the good bacteria are both gram positive). The affects probably won't be seen until you stop the meds, but I would have some bio-spira on hand just in case.

JC
 

#10
Alright, I am gonna do a water change tonight, since the Ammonia level in my tank is outragous now....And will get Maracyn II tommorow. Thanks for all your help. Everyone.

-Philippe

Originally posted by Leopardess
Yes, it will spread if left unchecked, in all likelihood.


I was just asking if you had used both maracyns or the plus since one on their own isnt fully effective:)

Petco should have it.