Ember tetras dying

[Winged]

They don't look any better today. If anything, they are a bit paler. One of them isn't staying with the other two. I wonder if that means it's not going to make it...

I have a hospital tank clear. Should I move them? Should I treat them with meds, and if so, which one(s)?

 

[DrNo]

They don't look any better today. If anything, they are a bit paler. One of them isn't staying with the other two. I wonder if that means it's not going to make it...

I have a hospital tank clear. Should I move them? Should I treat them with meds, and if so, which one(s)?

At this point, I would indeed move them and inititate treatment empirically for suspected bacterial infection. You don't know exactly what you're up against, so use a broad spectrum coverage. A combo of maracyn and maracyn 2 is easily found at most LFS/big box stores and will work well. Perform daily water changes and add the medication as directed daily after the water change. These meds have an adverse effect on biofilter bacteria so the daily water changes are important.

Other options include Seachem's Kanaplex or Neoplex but they are much more difficult to find. Your LFS may have them but don't bother looking for them at Petco/Petsmart, etc. Big Als Online has them available for order. I always keep some on hand just in case. These are my personal favorites as theydo not adversely affect biofilter (nitrobacter and nitrosamonas).

In all cases, follow the directions listed on the package and for the maracyns, watch water parameters. Keep us updated.

FYI... as I suspect a question re: Pimafix and Melafix is coming. These additives can help as they have inherent bacteriostatic properties but their true efficacy to treat and reverse infection is very debatable.

 

[Winged]

Thanks for the help, DrVader. I haven't moved them yet. (I wasn't able to get on here yesterday). They are looking much better--all three are schooling together, the colour is returning, and they are eating well.

I'm at work now (on my break), so I may go ahead and pick up Maracyn and Maracyn 2, just in case their condition worsens again or they fail to continue getting better.

 

[Winged]

I had my first non-ember death today--a pygmy cory. I really, really hope that it's just a coincidence. I realised this afternoon that I hadn't seen the cories swimming around like normal. I quick look revealed a dead one.

My embers are looking a whole lot better, even better than yesterday. Their colour has continued to brighten and they are more active than before.