tail growth

Question
QUESTION: I have had a male guppy for several months now. he was all yellow, then overnight the middle of his tail turned red. Looked like blood spreading out, but wasn't blood. I thought it was probably where he was getting older (he was young) and the color change was normal. this week theres like a "bubble" in the middle of the red. Only on 1 side of his tail. Its the same color as the red in his tail, not white or grey like some fungus is. Any idea what it is, and how to treat it? When I fitst saw it the word "ulcer" jumped into my mind, but its not sunk in, just bubbling out.

ANSWER: Billie,

It sounds like ammonia poisoning. Make sure you test the water weekly and a 25% water change weekly as well. I would do a large change of 50% today. Then test the water everyday and as long as the ammonia or nitrite is elevated, you will do a 25% water change. Do this daily until the reading on the ammonia and nitrite are zero.

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


guppy   QUESTION: I've none water tests each few days for the past month. its a 7.5 (alkaline). Thought that was ok, as the box says swordstails like higher levers, and the guppies have never had any problems,nor has the neons. The attached photo shows it a bit, he wouldn't stand still :) Its in the middle of the red spot on the tail. Thanks for any help. I don't want to loose Zac. (Yes all my fish are named)

Answer
Billie,

In the picture it looks more orange than red. But in seeing the picture I would say that he is just changing color. A lot of fish to this as they get older. As long as he is eating well and swimming as usual then all should me good. Just keep an eye on him and if he starts changing ie: swimming wrong or not at all or not eating, let me know.