FishProfiles.com Message Forums

I've noticed that one of my panda cories seems to be developing fin rot and my ram is flashing a
lot and gasping and sitting on the bottom. Are these the symptoms of gill flukes? If so can I treat both problems at the same time? If not what should I tackle first? Unfortunately, I don't have a quarantine tank to isolate either of them.

The first thing we do whenever anything of this nature presents itself is to check the environment.

Can you provide readings on Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate and pH?

Nitrite can cause gasping and it can also cause flashing.

If you should find them anything but zero, do a partial water change with same temp water. You may need something to help you through the problem if it is elevated. If you don't have a kit, most stores will test for free.

If you have no kits, I'd say bag some water, do a 30% water change and then take it in to be checked, assuming the potential for nitrites.

If you have freshwater aquariums salt, consider predissolving some - like just 1 tsp per 5 gallons. Dribble the solution in slowly over the day. This isn't much salt, but cories don't like salt. However, most will tolerate small amounts. The importance of salt is to inhibit the uptake of nitrite into the blood stream. It can be a lifesaver in the presence of nitrites.

How long has the tank been set up?

What size is it and how many fish are in it (detail stock).