Fungal Infection Treatments

[gofor100]

Hey Guys,

BACKGROUND: I'm in the middle of my QT process with a new Coral Beauty Angel (been in the QT for about 2 weeks now). With all of my fish, I do a full treatment (1 month) with Cupramine, but I am noticing what looks to be a fungal infection (small cotton-like growths) on the edge of its pectoral fins and a few spots on its dorsal fin (doesn't seem to have it on its body yet). Still eating and acting normal, but I obviously want to take care of this sooner rather than later.

MY QUESTIONS:

1) What over-the-counter medications will treat fungal and/or bacterial infections that are safe to use with marine fish? I've read that "broad spectrum" antibiotics work, but wasn't sure which brands people are using. If not over-the-counter, what fish medications will treat this type of infection? I've read Malachite Green and Formalin, but not sure if those items are still used or even available for use.

2) I know that you shouldn't mix medications, so I'm worried about the fact that I'm currently treating with Cupramine and wasn't sure if an anti-fungal/bacterial medication would somehow create something poisonous to the fish. If so, I was thinking of taking the fish out of the QT and giving it a "dip" in water that is treated only with the anti-fungal/bacterial medication. Suggestions?

Thanks in advance for your help,

Chad

 

[MrTuskfish]

The growths are probably lymphocytes, a common virus and no med will cure it. Its harmless and not contagious; as far as I know. Lympho has the texture of tiny cauliflower. True fungal infections are rare in fish. A pic would let us know for sure. I would not mix any meds with Cupramine and a quick dip wouldn't do anything for fungal infections. The lympho virus will go away with pristine water, good diet, and vitamins. I would expect the lympho to stay around as long as copper is in the tank. Nothing to worry about.

 

[MrTuskfish]

DP, sorry.

 

[gofor100]

Thanks! That's a huge relief if that's what it is. I do try to keep my QT water clean, but I'm sure that the extra stress of the copper doesn't help.

I do have other fish in the tank with the Coral Beauty (but separated with eggcrate), so it does make sense that the others don't have it (if it isn't contagious).

Thanks again for your input.

Chad

 

[MrTuskfish]

Yeah, it probably won't clear up until your done with copper treatment----no big deal, though.