Damsel has mysterious growth in his gills

[sassy51486]

So my damsel developed these black things just under the gill cover, on both sides. They stick out a little and are flapping more than normal. You can see a red substance beneath them. He is also breathing rapidly and his mouth stays open...It also looks like its shaped funny and protrudes somewhat. He sticks to one spot in the tank, usually a corner or somewhere hidden and remains close to the bottom. Anyone know what i may be dealing with here or how to begin to treat it????

 

[meowzer]

can you get a picture?

 

[sassy51486]

I can try but it could be tough. You might not be able to tell, you have to catch it at a certain angle

 

[sassy51486]

It doesn't come out. Its really hard

 

[beth]

Are you able to put the fish in to a quarantine tank? You can treat with copper if you have an established quarantine.

 

[sassy51486]

Yes i do, that's just what i was thinking. Thank you

 

[sassy51486]

So i went ahead with the treatment (Coppersafe). He appears to be doing better, the first day he just hid behind the rock, practically laying on his side not moving. I didn't think he was gonna make it. Now he's swimming around quite a bit, kind of awkwardly though. I can't get him to eat but other than that he seems ok. I am a little confused about the instructions on giving this medication. It says to treat 5 ml for every 4 gallons, and that treats the tank for a whole month?? Its a one-time dosage ? Or am i supposed to keep dosing it, and carry out water changes

 

[beth]

Its just once.