Fish Cold Sore. really!?!

Saltyanimals · Mar 8, 2018

Is this a cold sore on my tailspot? Looks like a big one! lol

But seriously. What is this? Just noticed it this week. Still pecks at the rocks and active, but looks looks serious.

Saltyanimals · Mar 8, 2018

Saltyanimals · Mar 8, 2018

(Sorry for the multiple post. I don't see an option to edit a prior post.)

Other info:

I thought maybe ich or something like that, but all the other fish seem happy and don't have visible signs. My initial fix is usually to boost garlic and vitamins like I do for the other fish in the tank, but those who own Tailspots know they don't seem to react feeding the tank. Seem to just prefer picking at the rocks so hard to juice him up.

Stable SPS tank so all the usual parameters in check.

HotRocks · Mar 8, 2018

It looks to be a bacterial infection. Do you have a QT tank? I would use the magic trio. Metroplex, Kanaplex, and furan-2. You could also give the fish a bath in acriflavine prior to dosing antibiotics.

Saltyanimals · Mar 8, 2018

Thanks, HotRocks. I have a running QT with a flame in it now waiting to get to DT, but it's nearly impossible to get any fish out of my DT without tearing the entire tank apart. The risk there is stress to all the other fish and coral in doing this.

Anyone else seen something similar? If not bacterial what else could it be? I assume it myself, but looking for broader opinions so I can determine treatment. He might have to fend for himself if I can't get him out.

Deinonych · Mar 8, 2018

It looks more like a nip from another fish or possibly a coral sting to me. I would wait for a few days to see if it resolves on its own, provided the fish is eating and otherwise acting normally.

Saltyanimals · Mar 9, 2018

Interesting perspective there. Didn't know coral could sting fish especially with their slime coats. Some thicker than others, but good to know. I did move a Hollywood Stunner near his area and those stingers are known to be mean. I'll keep watching. Thanks!