Angel's Frayed Dorsal Fin

[KLGFCG]

I've noticed a frayed dorsal fin on the angel I've had for 2 weeks. Sorry about the cruddy picture, but I think you can see what I'm talking about (maybe if you squint and look hard). S/he could have scraped it on my plastic plants or been nipped by the slightly larger angel in the tank (I've never seen any serious aggression, but the other angel is definitely dominant and occasionally gives chase and/or a little nip). I don't see any indication of fungus on the damaged fin. The angel is otherwise healthy... active, eating, etc. Water is good - ammonia and nitrites 0, nitrates 10, pH 8.2, temp. 79'. Besides the 2 angels, there are rummies, panda cories, and ottos in the tank.

I have Melafix but have never used it. Should I try it or just wait and see how things go? I'm loathe to start throwing things in the tank, but if it'll help the fin heal, I'll give it a go.

 

[jpappy789]

Water changes and clean water should help. Just keep a close eye on the fins for secondary infections.

 

[Draal5]

Your right about the picture but if the "damage" looks like a split end on a hair that is normal for some angels.

If thats not the case up the temp to 80-82 and frequent PWC's will help it heal adding salt will also help it heal faster. ( depending on what else is in the tank )

either way your fish will be fine

 

[KLGFCG]

Thanks for the advice/reassurance. It does look a bit like a split end. I'll just work on super clean water for now and see how it goes. I know fish tanks are supposed to be stress relieving, but you'd never know it from how I worry about these guys!