Sick Clown

[nyreefer]

I just introduced two percula's to my 55, I previously had a tomato clown that I took back to the LFS because he was too aggresive, so the tank was empty. The tank was in great condition LR and snails doing well and all water levels good. The day after the clowns were put in I noticed white blotches on their skin. The blotches (not ich) are more apparent when illuminated by light. Could this be lymphocytis? If so it is common for it to arise overnight? Will soaking food in garlic help this condition or is that specifically for ich? Thanks in advance...

 

[nyreefer]

Sorry just read the "how to post" sticky.
55G with 50lbs LR, protein skimmer and emperor wet/dry
Ammonia 0
Nitrite 0
Nitrate 0
SG 1.023
Water temp 78
Fish swim normal, lots of energy and love to eat!
The tank has been up and running for about 6 months now, due to lack of space and money I don't have a QT tank.

 

[elfdoctors]

Lymphocystis will usually have cauliflower like growths which tend to grow relatively slowly. With whitish patches being the primary symptom, I would be concerned about brooklynella. Check out the FAQ sticky at the top of this forum. There is a picture of a clownfish with brooklynella. Does your fish look like this? This tends to be a rapidly progressive infection.
Garlic soaked food is supposed to support the immune system so I don't see any reason not to try this, as long as your fish is eating.

 

[nyreefer]

Definately looks like brooklynella. I will try a search and looks for treatments. Can you recommend anything that may help. Also what is the cause of this I thought my tank was healthy and the fish looked good before introducing them to the tank. Thanks.

 

[elfdoctors]

I have little experience with this disease. The moderators could probably give you better information. Brooklynella tends to be very common on clownfish. I believe that formalin dips are the preferred treatment.
Most likely the new fish brought in the disease from direct contact with another infected fish. Looking good in the LFS is not good enough to assure that the fish is healthy because of incubation periods for many diseases. A QT would be recommended in the future.
Good Luck with your fish!

 

[nyreefer]

Thanks for all the help, I'll try the Formalin dip today.