RED CAP ORLANDA

Question
One of my red cap orlandas red colour on its head has faded,and its lying on its side.It still feeds ok,but I have to hold it over the food.It's been like this for a couple of weeks

Answer
Hi Peter,
Sounds like a stress symptom.

I hope its not too late but please do an immediate 50% water change. This is vital to rule out water pollution issues which are common with goldfish. He may have a swim bladder problem or an illness like an internal bacterial infection. However, the fact that he is eating is a ray of hope. Most fish with internal problems usually don't feel like eating.

Its quite difficult to diagnose without knowing more information or being able to see the fish.

Please check out this article about swim bladder disorder which is very common with fancy goldfish like Orandas -
http://www.kokosgoldfish.com/Swim%20Bladder%20Disorder.html

Some fish will float helplessly at the top of the tank, while others will sink to the bottom and have trouble swimming up.

We'll have to do some investigative work on this little guy.

It would be definitely helpful if you could get the water tested for Ammonia, Nitrites and Nitrates and take note of their levels.

Watch to see if the fish can swim up and if he struggles and sinks back down like there is something pulling him down.

Keep an eye out for strange looking poo as well. Clear, white and stringy waste can indicate an internal problem.

Is he gasping heavily? Does he look really bloated (hard to tell with fancy goldfish i know) or have any abnormal bulges?

Are there red streaks in his fins or anywhere on his body?

Do his scales all lay smoothly?

These are important things to consider when trying to diagnose a problem like this.

Even if he passes the symptoms test (allow for the laying on side) we may never know what is wrong. I've seen goldfish behave like this for quite a long time and eventually come around and start swimming and looking healthy again.

*I would definitely advise starting daily 50% water changes. There is nothing better for a fish that is ill than to have clean water.

Keep a close eye on him and feel free to let me know if you see any other symptoms.

If it is a swim bladder issue. This can be cured but it will require lots of persistent care and patience.

I really hope this helps and best of luck with your Oranda!
Susan~