I have a breeding pair of jack dempseys in a 40 gallon tank. Recently the male has been boulging in the stomach and everytime I feed him he gets larger and seems more sick. He is app 5" long and I have had him for about 2 years with no problems. He seems like he is struggling breathing, and does not move much at all now that he is getting so large in the stomach. It almost appears as though his rectum or intestines are blocked up. He eats but nothing seems to come out the other end. Its getting worse everyday and tonight i decided not to feed him, im afraid he might explode. I would appreciate any help or suggetions on what I could do to get him better asap. Thanks, Craig
sick jack dempsey.....
- Thread starter millercraig2005
- Start date
Intestinal blockage / constipation: This is more usually associated with loss of equilibrium, but in some severe cases it can lead to swelling. The only possible treatment is either try to feed the fish a few frozen peas, which act as a laxative, or else try baths in Epsom salts which has the same effect. If he is eating then the peas may help. Just cook, cool and remove the shell and feed. You may want to do a 50% water change and does the top off water with epsom salt if you don't already use it. As a general rule 1/4 teaspoon per 5 gallons. You probably want to does heavier at first and then maintain when doing water changes. If the condition is advanced, the success rate is likely to be poor. Good luck.
Thanks for the advice, but it was to far a long I guess, when I got home today he was dead. I did try the epsom salt 2 nights ago, but didnt seem to help much. At least I will know about the peas for next time though.
One other question i have now is, will the female mate again with another dempsey? THey have a been a pair for about 1 1/2 years now, and I have heard that they only have one mate. Is thi true? Thanks, Craig
One other question i have now is, will the female mate again with another dempsey? THey have a been a pair for about 1 1/2 years now, and I have heard that they only have one mate. Is thi true? Thanks, Craig
You should be able to introduce another male to her. Try to keep the size similar and give it a shot. I have not heard of only one mate but I guess it is possible. Sorry for your loss. I know how it can be. Rich
sorry for your loss 8(
JDs practice what's called (in the human world) serial monogamy. meaning they stick to their pair, but they will "move on" to new mates if the need arises.
there is a good chance that you can add a new male and they will mate.. it may take some time for them to get used to each other.
JDs practice what's called (in the human world) serial monogamy. meaning they stick to their pair, but they will "move on" to new mates if the need arises.
there is a good chance that you can add a new male and they will mate.. it may take some time for them to get used to each other.