help--fin rot?

[marktg]

I have a coral beauty. Yesterday I noticed that along the dorsal fin, about 1 cm before the tail fin starts, the fin looks to have rotted away and so now the fish has one longer dorsal and then a smaller one before the tail fin begins. Nothing new has been added to the tank for almost a month (11/24) and the coral beauty was added then. I've tried to take a picture but just don't have the equipment needed. The fish is eating normally and is possibly a little more skiddish than usual...possibly. The other fish look fine--yellow tang, two damsals, valentini puffer. CBS looks fine, too. If this isn't a disease, what could have injured the fin?

 

[beth]

Explain what the eroded area looks like in more detail. Does the fin now have spiked spines where fin once was? What about your other fish?
What are you feeding your fish and what are your water readings?

 

[marktg]

Hi Beth-
No spines--it just looks like the fin has eroded and a "V" has formed where there use to be continuous fin. Water readings:
pH: 8.2
Ammonia: 0
Nitrate: 0
Nitrite: 0
Temp: 77
specific gravity:1.022
The other fish are normal in appearance and behavior.
Food: mysis and brine, both frozen...time for some veggies?
I do see the tang and angel picking at the algae on the LR...
I really appreciate your help!

 

[marktg]

It appears now there may be an exposed 'spine'...

 

[beth]

That is usually a signal of ill-health, specifally malnurished.
Try adding more variety to that died. You may want to consider making your own fish food. Also, start adding zoecon to the food.

 

[marktg]

Thanks for your help, Beth.
My coral beauty's fin is looking MUCH better--especially yesterday and today...it looks like it's growing back. I did as you suggested and added vitamins to the food, and improved their diet with a new food.
You're so great to answer everyone's questions!
Take care.

 

[beth]

Thanks, Mark. Great to hear that your fish is on the mend!