Paccostamus

Question
Hi, I am kind of a new tank owner. I have a ten gallon tank with freshwater community fish in it. I recently had high ammonia levels cause of the whole nitrogen cycle jazz and one of my guppies died. I also noticed that my paccosstamus has started to have grey spots, almost like stripes on him, and i'm worried he might be sick. I've lowered the ammonia level and continue to check it, but i'm not sure if he has a disease or it's because of the water quality.

Also, i'm having a snail problem and i'm not sure what to do. I've been taking out as many as i can see and also i have an underwater catfish that i'm told will eat snails although i haven't seen him eat anything.

Also, i have neon tetras and one guppy now and they don't come to the top to eat the food they only wait until it falls down in front of them..

I'm just wondering if this is normal behavior. sorry to bombard you with questions i'm just a little new at this all.

I'd really appreciate it! Thanks! :D

Answer
Hello Heather,

I am sorry to hear that you are having a tough time of it.  Let's see if we can get this sorted out.

Please remember, that ammonia is only one thing that can stress fish.  Usually after an ammonia spike, there is a nitrite spike as well.  This isn't as deadly as ammonia, but if left unchecked, can kill fish as well.  Then, and finally, the nitrAte (notice the spelling) comes in.  This is the beneficial bacteria.  Though, that too, if not checked can kill fish in high levels.

First, I would do a 50% water change.  You may need to do this on a day to day basis until the nitrogen cycle finishes.  Make sure you use dechlorinated water.  Tap water will work as long as you add an additive like Chloram-X or something similar.  That removes all ammonia, chlorine and chloramine.  

From what it sounds like with your pleco, I would treat this tank with maracide, followed by melafix for at least 5 days.  This will help with parasites, as well as secondary infections that could occur from the parasite.

Also, I didn't notice what the temperature is of your tank.  I would definitely bump the temp up to around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and add aquarium salt at 1 tablespoon per 5 gallons of water.  This will cut down on the stress of the fish while undertaking this treatment.

I hope this will help you in your endeavors.  Please feel free to write back if you need further assistance.

Sincerely,

Adrian