chipped/sore/missing scales

Question
QUESTION: hi, my name is monika. i have an algae eater that's been making a hole in the gravel, almost burying itself. on one side of is head, looks like sore scales from rubbing against the gravel, should i pour something in to prevent an infection? let me know thanks.
--Monika

ANSWER: Hi Monika,
What kind of algae eater is this? It sounds like he is a species that prefers to burrow in the gravel. If I knew his species that would really help. And I think you should switch your gravel over to sand so he can bury himself better and not scratch himself up. That would be your best solution. His scales will heal just fine with good clean water.

I hope this helps! If you need help identifying your algae eater let me know his description as best you can and I will try to help.
Karen~

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

QUESTION: hi karen. i do need some help identifying it...
it looks like it has a little mop on its mouth, its yellowy-light orangy type it looks like its sore on its mouth, and bruises on its mouth. i can't really say anything else about it. but, thanks for helping!!!

Answer
Hi Monika,
Could you email me a picture of the poor guy? I'll post my email address in the next reply if you set your next reply letter to private. Or is there any way you could provide a picture through one of those photo sites like Photo bucket?

I will do my best to help!
Best wishes,
Karen~