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My water testings (ammonia, nitrates) are PERFECT, but my PH is high (8.0+) (but it always has been) and my other clown loaches (besides Marilyn who died) have done wonderfully for five months! The other loaches are thriving and growing. Poor little Eddie is going the path of Marilyn. Eddie was purchased about six weeks ago. My problem with meds is that I have several Panda Corys (including four fry which I am very proud of and did not even try to breed). Last time I medicated Marilyn, I lost all of my Leopard Corys, even though I used a medication supposedly safe for bottom feeders. I did do about a 40% water change last week, but water temp added was the same as existing (80 degrees). I am at a loss and I am sick watching this little fish suffer. He really isn't THAT bad.............yet. But if he goes the way of Marilyn, it will be ugly and I do not want to face that again. Unfortunately, I do not have a "hospital tank" - that is on my list to buy tomorrow. But will it be too late?

That's weird I also suspected osmotic shock but then I thought, then why's the tail damaged ?

The Amazon Nut...

you have got to give more info..tests..what do his gills look like? red?..he breathing heavy? is he gasping at the top?
did you just recently do a water change?

if not do one NOW! add conditioner..keep it the same water source and temp..

Sounds like shock(Osmotic)due to water.. with more info we might be able to find out..this is just a guess for now.
could be high ammonia(alkaline water)
Clowns are very sensitive to temps and water conditions..
I have 3 and I try to be carful when changing water.any other fish nipping at them?

[span class="edited"][Edited by 2004-07-28 17:01][/span]

Also can you post test results in ammonia,nitrite,nitrate,and ph.

I'm sorry to hear that. With the mouth stuck open I'm thinking a form of columnaris but I am not sure, I've seen a danio with same symptom.. Columnaris can do nasty stuff to a fishes face. Someone more experienced will be along soon. I would recommend pulling the charcoal and using Tetracycline but make sure if it is suitable for a clown loach. It's a harsh med. Get more opinions in here first. I hope it works out, hang in there !

Clown loaches also prefer a tank temp of 80. What's the temp in your tank ? Not that that's the problem, just asking.

The Amazon Nut...