Growth on Kole Tang

[returnofsid]

Well, my lack of QT, on this particular fish, has bit me in the behind. This is a tiny Kole Tang, (when I say tiny, I'm talking barely over an inch, total length), that we've had for about 3 weeks now. It's very active, swimming very normal and eating very well.

In the past couple of days, I've noticed a growth on it's side. Inspecting the growth, I am finding much smaller ones, on the other side and near the dorsal fin. The growth appear to be white, have a bumpy appearance. Could also be described as bubbles, I suppose. Unfortunately, due to curved glass, it's difficult to get a good photo of this guy. I am going to set up a QT tank, and await your advice. I'm guessing it's a fungal infection, bacterial infection or possibly Lymphocystis, which I really hope it isn't.

Once in a QT tank, with flat glass, I'll be able to get better pictures, I hope.

What would be your best advice as far as medicating this guy?

 

[BBraker]

Although the location on its left flank is a bit atypical, the white lesions appear to be Lymphocystis. No treatment should be attempted for that - most cases (95%+) resolve on their own in 6 weeks or so.

In the last image, I do see shadows of what seems to be some lumps underneath the fish's right pectoral fin - like bumps under the skin. That isn't Lymphocytis. I can't tell you what it is, but can say that it is probably medically more significant than Lymphocystis.

Bill

 

[returnofsid]

I see the possible lumps you're referring to, in the photo. I just took a close look at the fish and don't see them at all. I think it may have been shadows created by light, or even dirty glass...lol. In person, I don't see these lumps on the fish and am able to get a very close look at it. I will, however, keep my eyes open for any signs of them.

I was afraid it was Lymphocystis. I'll be watching for any secondary infections, ready to treat if needed. Until then, I'll just work on improving water quality. Since the fish appears perfectly healthy, other than the growths, it's eating well and swimming actively, I'll just take on a "wait and see" approach.

Thanks for the help!