sick clownfish

Question
My percula clon's mouth is very swollen to the point that it can't close and it is very white and puffy almost cottony looking she is not swimming around, just staying in the anemone. Do you have any idea what this could be? Is there anything I can do fot her?

Answer
Hi bunnie,
    I'm sorry to tell you your clownfish probably has a body fungus which starts at the mouth and may appear elsewhere. A company called mardel makes a few different remedies which might help. Since this is probably not a true fungus but is really a bacterial infection I would try "saltwater maracyn-two", a broad spectrum antibiotic that will treat fish who will not eat. If not available - use maracyn or maracyn plus. Treat your clown asap because if it does not eat it will die. The anenome is giving it a feeling of security and protection so that is good. The medicine should be available anywhere saltwater fish are sold. I will pray for your little clown but sometimes treatments come too late to reverse the effects of a disease. Do your best, follow the instructions in the medication and it will give your clown the best chance for survival. Good luck Bunnie, all the best, Gerry.