Diseases

Question
Hi

I have a Guourami which I have had for 12 months now and it appears to have a small swelling on his stomach which is now growing. It is internal and his scales are obviously opening up as the swelling gets bigger. He has an appetite and swims around OK - what is the problem and I have become attached to him and all my fish. The Levels in the tank are perfect as I test everyday.

Answer
Hi Beverley;

It may be a tumor or a cyst. There really isn't anything you can do though. Since he seems to act okay it may just be a benign (non-cancerous) tumor. Or, a fluid filled cyst. If he was acting sick I would suspect an abscess from an infection. Just keep the tank healthy with weekly 25% water changes and hopefully he will just cope with whatever it is on his own.

Good luck...

At Your Service;
Chris Robbins