What is this abnormal coloration on my damsel?

sptfyre51

sptfyre51

Member
I have a blue devil damsel and I noticed today when he was just sitting in his cave that there was a random coloration on his side. I tried to take a picture, but was unable to get a very clear picture, but the coloration looks like the color of oil when floating on top of water and the light hits it. Almost a "rainbow" like look to it. Is it something I should be worried about and if so how can I get rid of it? All my water and salinity are fine. And thank you for your help!

 
geridoc

geridoc

Well-Known Member
It is difficult to make out the details - the image is a little out of focus when enlarge it. However, it does look and sound a little like a wound. The fish could have injured itself on the rockwork, or been in a fight. Watch the spot carefully for signs of bacterial or fungal infection.
 
sptfyre51

sptfyre51

Member
He swam right up next to the glass so I was able to see the spot was flesh. There aren't any other fish in the tank. Is that too big for a wound from rubbing against rock? He has some grey areas on him now. Is that a bacteria infection?
 
sptfyre51

sptfyre51

Member
It isn't taking any food. It is very lethargic just sitting in a cave. He has come out for a bit last night and darted around the tank for a minute then went back to his cave. If it is a wound how could it be so large when there isn't anything else in the tank except small hermits and snails?
 
geridoc

geridoc

Well-Known Member
It does sound like a skin infection, probably from his colliding with a rock. If you have a hospital tank you could try to catch him and put him in there and treat with antibiotics, but good luck catching him. Treating with many antibiotics will kill the good bacteria in the tank, that's why a hospital tank, where you could try erythromycin.
 
sptfyre51

sptfyre51

Member
I will try that thank you. This wouldn't pose any problems for adding any other fish in the near future would it?
 
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