C nanoluteus Troubles

[jag123]

Tank: 35 gallon long

Inhabitants: 2 C nanoluteus, 5 tetras, 3 hatchets, 1 rubbernose plec, and 2 G altifrons(petsmart specials).

pH: 6.8
Temp: 78-79 F
Ammonia: 0
Nitrite: 0
Nitrates: ~15 ppm

Problem: The nanos - both of them are sulking quite a bit lately, hiding and not bulling everything as usual. I would say in the past 3-4 days. Both are breathing rapidly, and not eating. I have actually stopped feeding the tank 2 days ago. I have noticed their poo is stringy and whitish colored. Also the larger ones belly is looking considerably rounder. I am obviously concerned this may be bloat.

I am totally inexperienced when it comes to bloat.

Another bit of info that may be worthy of note: I have switched up the tank's nutritional intake to include Tetra color bits. I usually feed Hikari chichlid gold softened up in water and occassional bloodworm treat 2-3 times a week. I have also changed the substrate to sand as of about 2 weeks ago.

Any input with regards to the possible bloat situation would be greatly appreciated.

 

[rrcoolj]

I would isolate them and treat them for bloat. I would get some clout if you don't already have any and follow the instructions below.

http://www.cichlid-forum.com/phpBB/viewtopic.php?t=24132

Anytime you find your fish not eating and you find them to have white stringy poop, it's usually bloat IME.

 

[jag123]

I hate giving updates if they are not good - but an update none the less:

I lost one of the nanos outright - totally bloated up.

The larger of the two is still hanging in there, but I fear not for long. I have removed it from the main tank and increased the temp and added epsom salts (1/8 tsp/gal as recommended) to reduce the bloating.

Any other recommendations are welcome. I have done considerable reading as of late on the subject, and most of the information seems to be consistent. I have decided not to try any chemicals/antibiotics at this time as I feel the nano may be too far gone.

 

[rrcoolj]

I would recommend you treat with clout or something similar. I don't think salt alone will cure the problem. I am no expert on bloat but I have lost a few fish to it and it's not fun at all. Is the other nano bloated or does it have like an ulcer around the anal area? Unfortunalty it might be too far gone too save. Bloat is something you have to catch early.

 

[jag123]

The surviving nano is bloated up also - no ulcerated anal area to be seen. Still breathing heavily and lethargic/listless.

If he survives the night, I may try clout. thank you for the helpful input.

Fishkeeping can be a hard fought battle and the lessons learned are hard won.