Sick 25-year-old Rafael Catfish

[skanter]

Have you tested your water?

Yes

If I did not test my water...

1. ...I recognize that I will likely be asked to do a test, and that water tests are critical for solving freshwater health problems.

Do you do water changes?

Yes

If I do not change my water...

1. ...I recognize that I will likely be recommended to do a water change, and water changes are critical for preventing future freshwater health problems.

My Rafael catfish is at least 25 years old, but got sick, stopped eating, then developed this nasty fungus. I though he was just old and dying, but he has been hanging on for weeks.

Is there any hope, or should i euthanize him? He hasn’t eaten for a month, as far as i know, unless at night.

 

[kno4te]

Sorry to see it this way. Is it active despite not eating? I’d dose some kanamycin and furan 2 if u decide to treat. Salt as well at 1 tsp per g. Keep nitrates below 20ppm.

 

[krichardson]

I don't recall ever seeing anything like that on a fish before. My goodness.

 

[skanter]

Sorry to see it this way. Is it active despite not eating? I’d dose some kanamycin and furan 2 if u decide to treat. Salt as well at 1 tsp per g. Keep nitrates below 20ppm.

Not really active, though will move around occasionally. Hangs out in front of tank, which is unusual behaviour, usually hides in cave in daytime. the areas on back were first white, then fungus-like stuff. He is so old i just figured his time was up, but he’s hung on so long I’m now not sure. Still think he’s on his way out, not sure I want to put him thru the stress of treatment.

 

[skanter]

I don't recall ever seeing anything like that on a fish before. My goodness.

Me neither, and have kept fish for 45 years.

 

[Daniel36]

I did a quick google search and according to what I found the average life span is 10yrs so if that’s accurate you have a supernatural survivor, it could just be time catching up.

 

[skanter]

We moved to our present location in 1989, and we had him before that, so at least 32 years old.. Was a 2” baby when i bought him. Totally ancient. Sad to see him go, but it just may be his time is up. But still alive, have not seen him eat for a month.

 

[The Morning]

That is amazing. Regardless of the outcome here that is extraordinary to have a fish that long.

 

[tlindsey]

just may be his time is up. But still alive

Very unfortunate to see the Raphael Catfish going through that but agree about time is near. I applaud ? you on the years of taking care of the Raphael Catfish for that many years.

 

[tlindsey]

That is amazing. Regardless of the outcome here that is extraordinary to have a fish that long.

Absolutely agree with you.