my tang is very sick

[gokalp]

Hello

I am new to hobby. Would you please tell me what is the problem with my tang. Which disease and how to cure? This fish is around 3 weeks in my aquarium. And he is getting worser since several days. There are whitish spots on the body. And he is breathing quickly. His back fin is also corrupted. I also see black area around is mouth. The brisstletooths do not look OK. I have some other fish in my aquarium like 1 blue tang, 4 cardinals and 1 yellow tail damsel. They look healthy

Salinity 1025, temp 29, ph 8.3, nitrate 20-40 ppm, amonia 0, nitrite 0. I have a 100 gallons tank with ATI Bubble Master Skimmer.




Thks

Gokalp

[leebca]

WELCOME TO REEFLAND! Gokalp

Sorry to hear of the fish problems.

I've seen fish like this quite often. Mostly it is easily seen in Tangs and large Angelfishes. First, keep in mind that when a Tang is stressed or in hiding at night, it will often show a similar spotted pattern with a variety of shapes. This is part of their camouflage. When the Tang gets angry or very upset, it will also display some variations of color and pattern. If you are sure these 'spots' are not because of this, then read on.

Tangs have a mucous coating thinner than most marine fishes. This makes them more sensitive to water quality and common bacterial infections. More than likely it is either one or the other (water quality and/or bacteria) that is bothering the fish.

Not all water quality problems are found just checking for ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. Sometimes a poison gets into the water; sometimes there is too much organic waste build up (like, you are not keeping the skimmer clean enough or the tank is not being skimmed properly); etc.; etc.

Make sure your tank equipment is properly maintained. Look for any poisoning sources and stop them. Make sure your marine system is clean without waste products (detritus) building up in corners or other places.

Then, perform a large water change. If you can, change out at least 60% of the water, making sure to follow these guidelines closely: how do I do a water change?

I hope the water you are using is clean and pollutant free. What kind of source water do you use there? You might find this interesting to read, regarding source water: WATER - Source and NSW

The large water change will address the possibility of there being a water quality issue. If the fish looks better a day after the water change, then do it again. If the fish doesn't improve, then the fish should be moved to a hospital tank and treated there with an antibiotic.

I'm unsure what fish medications are available to you, there in Istanbul, so I don't know what to recommend. I have traveled around the world and been in many places, but someday hope to visit your city.

Good luck!