porcupine puffer

[christa]

I came home from work tonight and my puffer had a bright white patch on top of him. It almost looks like a spine was ripped off. Does anyone know if there skin underneath looks snow white, or could it be something else. I don't know how this would of happened. The only other fish I have in there are a Naso tang and a marron clown. Could the maroon clown have bitten him? Thanks for the help.

Christa

 

[kevin2000]

Is this a new fish? Any new fish additions lately? Can you provide a picture?

 

[christa]

I have had this fish for 5 years. The other fish are around that age too. No new additions. I will try to put up a picture.

 

[kevin2000]

Not sure. The lack of new fish additions significantly reduces the chance of this being a parasite issue ... which increases the likelihood of bacterial or viral issues.

Its always possible that you have a conflict with one or more fish in a tank .. especially with a maroon clown. .. whether that is the cause or even a contributing factor is unknown.

Bacterial infections can clear up on their own depending on the severity. Helping the fish's own immune system is often limited to maintaining/ improving water quality, lowering stress, and providing nutritional food.

You should considering qting the fish ... antibiotics may become necessary and those can do damage in a ST.

Once again a picture may help.