Pacu has something!

[DougC]

Ive had a Red Pacu for a while now and he and the 2 Blue Gouramis out grew the 29g tank they were in so I spoiled myself and bought a 150g tank. (boy was I in for a extensive piece of work) But anyway, the tank came down with a severe case of Ick. I lost 2 Irredescent Sharks to this due to the treatment but I was triumphant! Got everything undercontol, or so I thought. The eldest of the Pacus that I have has come down with something. Im thinking its a fungus of some sort. Its on his upper lip and has grow significantly in the last week. It kinda looks like a white puff ball on his "nose". I thought it was an ulcer but I did a little research and narrowed it down to some sort of fungus. Is there anything someone can tell me that will assist in the remedy of this. I would be rather upset if I lose this guy to something that could have been prevented rather easily. If needed, I can get some pictures posted. Even though he is camera shy Thanks!

 

[littletankbigworld]

Is your tank cycled?
What are the readings for ammonia, nitrate and nitrite?

 

[DougC]

Not really sure what you mean by cycled so im going with a no. I think I have gotten into something and I wasnt 100% on all the details. Seen the price of the tank and couldnt pass it up.

The ammonia level is pretty high. I do a 30-40% water change once a week and I havent tested the nitrate or nitrite levels in a while. As mentioned, I did have an Ich outbreak but got that situated. I purchased and anti-bacterial remedy, made by Melafix, and it seems to be doing the trick. The growth is getting a little better day by day. Its a 7 day treatment process and im only on day 2. I did some more research after posting and ruled it out as a fungus/bacteria infection.

Also, is there anywhere I can find a good knowledge base for Pacus? I cant seem to find any info on them. Thanks you for your assistance!

 

[OrangeCones]

Red Belly Pacu Fish - Piaractus brachypomum

They need a HUGE tank or a pond and excellent filtration. They can grow up to two feet (red belly) or four feet (regular pacu).

The irredescent shark also is a tankbuster, growing to 4+ feet.

You will need a much larger tank than the 150gallon.

 

[DougC]

Well thats good to know... they are both red bellies. I do know that. Although the largest( one with the issue) no longer has a red belly. The smaller one(same pet store purchased) is still got the red in him. The larger ones bottom fin and tail fin have taken a black color. He seems to be getting better with this treatment though*SUPERSMIL