Oranda with tumor and tail bloodlines

Question
Hi Tina,
We bought "Chub" in April of '07 and he is 5-6 in long and really fat. Originally he had a black cap on his head that turned orange around June and then became translucent around September. Recently he has developed a large growth on the left side of his head or cap. It appears that the lobes or wart-shaped texture of his cap have developed a tumor and he has bloodlines in his tail. We have treated him in a "hospital tank" for 5 days with Mardel Maracyn-Two and have seen little change. Please help!! We can send photos if needed.

Answer
Hello John and Wendy,

I am not sure I can help or not, but I do know that if this is not treated quickly, you may lose your pet named "Chub".  Blood lines on fins, are usually caused by Septicemia.  It needs to be treated with a broad spectrum anti-biotic.  I would suggest maracyn, instead of maracyn-two. Make sure that when you do this, that the ph is around 6.5-7.2 and ammonia is reduced to 0.  Hopefully if you caught this in time, the fish will recover.  Also, adding a small amount of aquarium salt may help with "Chub's" stress.  This isn't particularly "catchy" and I do not believe that the other inhabitants would come down with it.  If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.


Sincerely,

Adrian