My cichlid has a hole near her tail. Is it fin rot or a parasite?

Question

I have a female fish cichlid that has a hole in her back by her tail is it a parasite or bad fin rot (body rot) I'm afraid if left unchecked it will go straight through to the other side of her body. Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Female

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

It could be a bacterial or parasitical infection. Confirm adequate water quality and stable chemistry. perform partial water changes, no more than 30% total volume, to stabilize chemistry or to maintain/improve water quality. Use only aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. You may want to consider separating her out to make treatment easier and to prevent spread if what she has is contagious. A broad spectrum antibiotic, such metronidazole, can treat bacterial and protozoan infections. Find it under the brand name MetroPlex in the aquarium section of the local Petco. Follow label directions carefully and remove the carbon filter insert during treatment if indicated. Plain aquarium salt (NOT table or Epsom salt) can be use din conjunction as a general tonic to reduce stress, improve gill function, help treat infection and aid in recovery. Dissolve 1 tablespoon per 5 gallons of water and gently pour it into the tank. Treat for 10-14 days then reassess her condition. Do not use salt if you have invertebrates, eels or other scaleless fish in the tank.

My cichlid has a hole near her tail. Is it fin rot or a parasite?

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