Kole tang with mysterious growth?

[mpderksen]

Well THIS is a new one to me. Not sure if it's a parasite, some odd growth or what. It looks like a 3-4" thread coming out of her side. Only on one side. Eating and behavior is normal. Should I post in the disease section? Or is it some random fin evolution that happens when she matures?

 

[Betta132]

Looks like some form of parasite. I suggest a freshwater bath, that should get the nasty thing off.

 

[mpderksen]

PraziPro the whole tank? Catching her would be a serious trick.

 

[jason2459]

Could be something stuck to it's barb. That's what it looks like to me.

 

[jechew2]

Could be something stuck to it's barb. That's what it looks like to me.

I agree with you.

 

[Moort82]

Could be something stuck to it's barb. That's what it looks like to me.

That's what I was thinking too, maybe a hair?

 

[Ron448]

If you attempt to catch it I recommend trying after the lights have been off for a couple hours.

 

[johnc99]

Looks like the chromis in the background also has something attached to it. I see a white oval on the dorsal fin. Some kind of isopod perhaps.

 

[mpderksen]

Looks like the chromis in the background also has something attached to it. I see a white oval on the dorsal fin. Some kind of isopod perhaps.

It's actually a dried water spot on the outside of the glass.... Nice catch though. I just checked him to be sure.
Whatever it was, it's gone now. Good thing I didn't freak out, tear apart the rocks in an attempt to catch her. I'll keep a close eye on everyone. I didn't realize, until I did some reading, that Tangs have those spines in the back. It looked like an intestinal worm coming out, but not from the right place....