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Yesterday we noticed my gouramis has a white fuzz growing all over half of his face. It's only on one side so far and Isn't on any of the other fish. We just got the fish on Saturday. What's wrong with him? How can we cure his issue?

Yesterday we noticed my gouramis has a white fuzz growing all over half of his face. It's only on one side so far and Isn't on any of the other fish. We just got the fish on Saturday. What's wrong with him? How can we cure his issue?

Updated On January 22nd, 2018

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

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The white fuzz may be Columnaris, an infection causing bacteria, or a fungal infection. It can be difficult to differentiate without microscopic examination. Either can be managed/treated via partial water changes, plain aquarium salt (NOT table salt) and medications. Partial water changes, no more than 20-30% daily, will stabilize chemistry and maintain or improve water quality. Use only aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent additional stress or shock. Aquarium salt can be used at 1 tablespoon per 5 gallons of water. Dissolve in a few cups of tank water and gradually pouyr it into the tank. Treat for 10-14 days then reasses the condition. When performing water changes, treat only the volume of water being replaced, not the entire tank volume. A methylene blue dip can be done daily. You can find it in the aquarium section of the local pet or fish store. A concentration of 50ppm is recommended. Do not add it to the main tank as it will turn everything blue and kill beneficial bacteria in the filter and substrate. Use a separate container and dip the fish for a few seconds, rinse and return it to the main tank. In the future, quarantine any new fish for several days to prevent introduction of disease to existing populations.

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