Flesh Wound???

[metalhead789]

Hi, in my freshwater tank I noticed today after college than my molly had a big chunk of her insides sticking out or something. I'm really worried and want to either put her out of her misery or know if I can save her. She's swimming, eating, showing no signs of distress or anything. Please help!

 

[MrTuskfish]

I can't tell from the pic. I can't imagine the fish eating if these are his giblets (in the spirit of the season) hanging out. Are you sure this isn't something growing from the fish? I've seen similar growths (or possibly a parasite) a few times. I'd get him out and take a good look, if its not part of the fish, remove it with a tweezers od cuticle scissors. Swab with a liquid (not petroleum based) antibiotic. If it is obviously part of the fish, I'd euthanize him.

 

[alprazo]

Never thought I would give advice on a molly, but they can live with some salt so why not.

It is hard to tell from the photo but as described by you, it could be a prolase of the rectum. It is at risk for injury from other fish, but otherwise fish typically do OK with it. You can try to push it back in, but it is likely to prolapse again. To me however it appears to be a fungal infection. There are several freshwater antifungals out there and it may be worth a try.

Good luck.