Tiger Lilly is lethargic and has what looks like an ulcer...

Question
Hello Chris!

I have (2) goldfish, Tiger Lilly and Travis Bickle, I think they are Calico Fantails, in a 10 gal. tank.

The filter is a whisper bio bag.  I have no idea what the chemical levels are, and I changed the water about two weeks ago...it may have been longer.  There is some algae on the sunny side of the tank, and I've never vacuumed.  I've had this set up for maybe 2 months.

I've noticed in the past week or so, that Tiger Lilly keeps floating in the same corner of the tank - like she's sleeping.  She snaps out of it now and again, plays with Travis, eats (loves her thawed peas!) But now she seems to have an ulcer on the top of her head - the bit that is out of the water when she floats at the top.  

Travis is active, so I don't know that it's a temp. change (I live in Minneapolis, but the room is always 65-68f.)  

Please advise - new water and filter?  salt bath?  I'm so thrilled to have had these guys as long as I have - I'd like to do everything possible to make her well again!

Thanks so much,
Danielle

Answer
Hi Danielle;

Your fish need a water change for sure. All tanks need a 25% water change and a gravel vacuuming once a week. Especially goldfish. They are messy guys. The water change may be enough to correct her problem but she may need aquarium salt and a natural product called "Melafix" to help her heal. Follow the instructions on the labels.

If after the water change, salt and melafix she doesn't look better, get a fish medicine for bacterial infections such as Maracyn. It's okay to continue to use the salt and melafix with the medicine in the water.

Your goldfish will need a bigger tank soon too. Each one actually needs at least 10 gallons all for itself because they get to large and are so messy. A 20 or 30 thirty gallon with a good power filter will suit them both just fine. Here is a good web page about them;

http://www.firsttankguide.net/goldfish.php

I hope she feels better soon...

At Your Service;
Chris Robbins