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There is purple stuff growing on my male guppy near the tail area it looks like a spot I have had many fish but this has never happened please help. I couldn't take a picture of him because he kept moving sorry.

There is purple stuff growing on my male guppy near the tail area it looks like a spot I have had many fish but this has never happened please help. I couldn't take a picture of him because he kept moving sorry.

Updated On January 15th, 2018

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Male | unneutered

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

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Separate him into a quarantine tank if you can. This will prevent spread in the case of infection and should make any treatment easier. Once the condition resolves, he can be returned to the main tank. Check water quality and chemistry. Poor water quality or imbalances can promote bacterial, fungal or algae growth in the tank or on your fish. Partial water changes can be done to stabilize chemistry and maintain water quality. Use only aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. Plain aquarium section (NOT table salt) can be used to treat minor infection. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt per gallon of water in a cup of tank water and gently pour it into the tank. Treat for 10-14 days then reassess the condition. You can also try Melafix along with the salt treatment. If neither work, a broad spectrum antibiotic can be found in the aquarium section of the local pet store. Follow label directions carefully and remove the carbon filter insert during treatment if indicated.

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