Barbs scraping against plants?

[maxthedog123]

I've noticed a couple of my tiger barbs scraping against plants in my 55g. I can't see any signs of anything abnormal in appearance or on their gills. No other fish are showing any odd behavior.

A QT tank is not an option right now. Suggestions?

Water parameters normal - 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate.

 

[NeonFlux]

I believe you may have co2 on too high? High levels of co2 may cause irritation to all fish. Do you keep a high tech planted tank? If no, then it may be parasites, like ich/ick. if so, you should salt the whole tank for a few weeks and again to ensure complete eradication.. A QT tank is crucial lol you should get one if you ever have the space.

 

[maxthedog123]

I do run pressurized CO2 - my drop checker that uses 4dKh reference solution is a solid green, so I am assuming the levels are OK.

I've cured Ich with the salt treatment + raised temp before. Will Ich affect gills before showing on the rest of the fish?

 

[NeonFlux]

Did they ever scratch a couple days back? Did you introduce any new fish to your 55gal?? Barbs may be a bit sensitive when exposed to high levels of co2;just a guess..

 

[maxthedog123]

It's been a couple of months since any new fish were introduced. I have not noticed any of the barbs doing this before. Also, I've had barbs and the same CO2 setup for a long time.

 

[NeonFlux]

Hmm..so they have been doing it repeatedly for a couple days now? It may be ich or some parasites, I would say salt the tank, better safe than sorry

 

[maxthedog123]

Will yoyo loaches tolerate salt??

 

[NeonFlux]

I dont know, but they probably are intolerant because they are catfish. Just be cautious and add salt very slowly and gradually. It should be alright.