My fish is lying on the bottom, breathing. Why isn't it swimming?

Question

My fish is lieing on those rocks for like a week, but still breathing, even, if she is not swimming. What to do? She has damaged her beeathing elements probably. Is there any way how I could help her ? Im veterinary student, so can try to do something. Pet's info: Fish | Algae Eater

Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS · Accepted Answer

It seems like there is an ulceration at the level of the gills. This may be related to a bacterial or fungal infection. Hole in the Head disease is possible as well. The exact cause of hole in the head fish disease has yet to be determined, but strong suspicion in terms of causes are parasite (Hexamita or Spironucleus infestation) or nutritional imbalances. Water quality must be checked and any abnormality corrected first. The treatment usually consists of taking a multi-faceted approach and includes includes the addition of the antibiotic metronidazole to the treatment tank housing the infected fish and making sure feeding is adequate. In cases where secondary bacterial infections are present, additional antibiotics such as Maracyn, Kanacyn, or Furan may be needed. When treating this or any disease, try to use a separate treatment tank and treat as soon as the first symptoms appear.

My fish is lying on the bottom, breathing. Why isn't it swimming?

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