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suspected ich on dwarf gourami, newly cycling aquarium

23 15:26:46

Question
QUESTION: I just set up my new 55 g freshwater aquarium on Saturday (9/17).  I dechlorinated the water and let the tank run for a little over 24 hours, then on 9/18 added Tetra Safe Start and 3 flame gouramis to cycle the tank.  The gouramis were shy so it was hard to get a good look at them for the first day or two, but now they have identified me as The Keeper Of The Food and swim right up to me.  Today (9/20) I see that one of them has a single white spot on one fin and another spot on the top of his head.  No other spots visible on anyone.  So, given where I am in the cycling process, do I go ahead and treat the tank for ich, wait a bit, or what??

I'm running a Penguin BioWheel Power Filter 350, and have the temp set at 78 degrees.  Tank has no live plants at this time, only artificial (African Tiger Lotus still in transit!), and gravel substrate. I also use an air pump and bubble wall to provide additional aeration.  Fish are active, eating well, and showing no signs of distress.  I haven't tested the water levels because the Master Test Kit that was supposed to be in the supply order is delayed, but can get the water tested for free at my local Petsmart if need be.

Thanks for your help!
Wendy

ANSWER: Hi Wendy!

Ich can be a common pain in the neck. You can try Maracyn 1 and 2 or the Tetra Life/Ick Guard.
You can buy them @ Petsmart and Petco. You might also want to try using API Stress Zyme and Stress Coat. Stress Coat has  the healing power of Aloe Vera, is scientifically proven to reduce fish stress and heal damaged tissue.  It forms a synthetic slime coating and replaces the natural secretion of slime that is interrupted by handling, shipping, fish fighting, or other forms of stress.  Helps reduce susceptibility to disease and infection.  Helps heal torn fins and skin wounds.  Reduces electrolyte loss.  Also works instantly to remove chlorine, chloramines and ammonia from tap water. While Stress Zyme improves the development of the biological filter and helps clean a dirty aquarium. Contains over 300 Million live bacteria per teaspoonful. Breaks down organic compounds that cause dangerous conditions such as ammonia and nitrite poisoning and low oxygen levels. Continuous use assures an active biological filter, cleaner aquarium, healthier fish and good water quality. There is no refrigeration necessary. Use it when setting up and maintaining an aquarium. If you are planning to use the Tetra Brands, remember to turn OFF the filter and let Stress Zyme do the "cleaning" work.

Hope this helps! IF you have anymore concerns, questions, just contact me ASAP. :D
~Sam


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks, I'll try those products!  So will doing this mean that I am interrupting the new-tank cycling process, and once I am done I need to start cycling my tank all over again?

Thanks,
Wendy

Answer
Hi Wendy!

Nice to hear from you again! :D

No, you don't have/need to. Just turn back on the filter when the fish are healed and after you're done using the Tetra/Maracyn products. The instructuons on the packaging will tell you what to do.

~Sam