sick neon tetra

Question
Hi, I am going through something with a black neon tetra in my tank. It suddenly developed a swollen belly. I researched what it could be, and the only thing related to this that I could find to explain it is Dropsy, but the belly is filled with fluid, looks like there may be small amounts of blood in with it, and the scales are not protruding at all. So I don't think this is dropsy.. but there seems to be no other answer...Do you have any thoughts on what this could be? I'm thinking of taking it out of the tank, it's back is starting to curve from it, and it looks like it's suffering. What I'm wondering is does this mean there is something wrong with my tank? I have a pleco and other tetras in there and they seem to be okay. What do you think it could be? I really appreciate any input you have on this.

Melissa

Answer
Hi Melissa,
I'm sorry to hear that. Black Neon Tetras are one of my favorites.

It does sound like dropsy. Or otherwise an internal condition where the fish is having great problems with fluid retention. This may be due to internal organ failure, internal bacterial infections, cysts or tumors. Unfortunately, conditions like this are difficult to treat. The typical routine would be to move the fish to a small hospital tank, treat with some epsom salt (helps draw out excess fluid) and use an antibacterial medicaton.

I really don't like suggesting really harsh medications when we aren't sure what we are treating for but I would recommend a milder medication like Melafix (found at wal-mart or petstores) which is a natural antibacterial medication. Pimafix is also similar and a much milder medication and has been known to help treat dropsy-related infections.

If you want to try epsom salt I recommend only about 1/4 teaspoon per gallon. You should definitely try to treat your neon in a separate tank instead of subjecting the other healthy fish to treatment.

When fish reach the stage your neon is in... Often help now will be a little too late. It can be hard to reverse this condition. And remember dropsy is more a symptom rather than a disease itself.

I'd say isolate the fish and keep him comfortable as best you can. If he's got a little bit of fight in him and you have the resources, try treating him.

I hope this helps and good luck!
Susan~