fin and tail deterioration disease

[fishmom]

Can someone please help my coral beauty?
I have a 150 gal. tank with 4 damsels, one yellow eyed tang, a mexican raz, and the coral.
One of the damsels has been chasing the other fish around and my coral was "in hiding" under coral for a few days. He emerged last night with his tail and upper fin a bit 'shredded' and he had trouble keeping erect. The other fish were also nipping at him. I gave him a 3 1/2 minute freshwater dip last night, and this morning he looked alittle more erect, and had moved to the other side of the tank. I don't know if he got into a fight and with partial loss of tail it is difficult to maneuver or what. I could not find any sign of disease (spots, etc.) I need advise as it pains me to watch a fish suffer or think that something I could have/should have done would save him.
I also have a hard time dealing with fish death. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Thank you.

 

[beth]

Damsels are very aggressive fish and can be quite a nuisance in a community tank. I think your assumption about the coral beauty being harassed is correct. I would suggest you fish all of the damsels out [good luck chasing them] and see if you can get a trade of some kind with your LFS.
There is usually 1 dominate damsel and he will harass other fish. If you get rid of that one, then another will take his place in the pecking line.

 

[fishmom]

Thanks for the advice Elizabeth.
I am new to the world of salt water aquariums and until recently, my fish tank was more of a mausoleum than a safe habitat for living creatures. For the last 4 months, all was well and the tank was doing fine, but I still don't feel confidant enough to trade in my damsels for more expensive tennants. I would give just as much effort saving my damsels as I would the other fish. Besides, I have had the best luck with damsels.
Last night my coral developed 'popeye ' and I am currently treating him with Spectogram baths. He is swimming better, and I hope that he makes it.
Thanks again for the advice.

 

[mal]

I agree with Beth, I would get the damsels out. They will continue to pester your other fish. Maybe replace them with a pair of clowns and a fire fish goby. They aren't expensive and are nice, lot's of color. Granted they are not as cheap as damsels, but they don't terrorize tankmates either. Hope the CB recovers.

 

[pufferlover]

Ok I read and answered other post first after reading this one have to agree the Damsels are the problem and if you get the beauty better to put it back with them will only end badly for the fish and your feelings. Get the Damsels out and as said replace with some colorful less aggressive fish and in the end the reward will be a happy healthy tank.