Panda Cory

Question
My panda cory has yellow spot, looks like a ball near his gill?  He not moving much.  What to do

Answer
Hi Chad:  It is difficult to diagnose this.  It could be anything from a bacterial infection, a wound, or even a parasite.  We are going to have to watch this and see what it develops into.  In the meantime there are a few things that we can do in the way of treatment that will help regardless of the diagnosis.  First lets raise the water temperature to about 80-85 degrees... you want to do this slowly... one degree per hour and when you get to 80 degrees then evaluate how your fish is doing. If he is still just laying around... then stop... if he is swimming a bit... then go up to 82... when you stop... let him be for a day and then continue if he is doing ok. These fish should be able to stand temperatures of 88-90 degrees but when they are sick they are more fragile.  Now as you begin to adjust the temperature I want you to add aquarium salt per its instruction label.  Take into consideration any other fish you may have in your tank...such as tetra's.  I will be at work most of today so not available till this evening... but please keep me updated and I will get back to you as soon as possible.  You will want to go to the local aquarium and if possible purchase medication for parasitical infections and one for bacterial infections.  You can ask the clerk which one is best... Please though... go to an aquarium and not a pet store... the selection at the aquarium will be better and the staff is likely to be more knowledgeable.... dave