My goldfish has red spots and is lethargic after adding a pleco. Why?

Question

Hello, I have 2 goldfish who recently had a pleco added to their tank. A week after one of the goldfish had red spots all over. Being concerned we removed the pleco but the goldfish is still showing symptoms. I did a complete water change adding antibotics. The goldfish is staying at the bottom of the tank and seems very lethargic. What should we do. Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

Check the water chemistry. Two goldfish can quickly overwhelm a tank with their large bio load. Aim for 0.25 ppm (parts per million) or less ammonia, 0 ppm nitrites and 40 ppm or less nitrates with a temp between 65 and 72F. If water chemistry is good, it is possible the red marks are from the pleco. They are notorious for sucking the slime coat off goldfish leaving red marks and wounds. Partial water changes, 30-50%, using aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched are safer and less stressful than complete changes. Give the antibiotics time to work. You can add in plain aquarium salt (NOT table salt) to aid healing. Dissolve one teaspoon per gallon of water in a cup of tank water and gently pour it in the tank. Perform partial water changes after 10-14 days to reduce salt content.

My goldfish has red spots and is lethargic after adding a pleco. Why?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?

My 4-week-old chick is sick and sleeps standing. What should I do?

Why is my chicken pale, tired, not laying, and pooping neon yellow?

My sick small pet is breathing mouth open. Did I drown her feeding?

Share