Melanarus wrasse issue

[bucfan]

My 6 year old melanarus wrasse has developed these black dimple like stuff on his head. He does not seem to be sick and eats fine. What is it and what must I do?

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

Can you get a clearer photo, taken under white light instead of blue?

Did this come on suddenly, or did it develop gradually over time? Six years is pretty old for this species (probably max out at around 10 years). Some male wrasses are prone to odd changes in color and their skin over time, I suspect due to a buildup of sex hormones in the water (but that is unproven). If this change occurred over a few days, that isn't it though.

Jay

 

[bucfan]

Can you get a clearer photo, taken under white light instead of blue?

Did this come on suddenly, or did it develop gradually over time? Six years is pretty old for this species (probably max out at around 10 years). Some male wrasses are prone to odd changes in color and their skin over time, I suspect due to a buildup of sex hormones in the water (but that is unproven). If this change occurred over a few days, that isn't it though.

Jay

This is the best I can do. He tends to stay near the glass so can't get the light on him. Looks like a black crater.

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

Thanks, that's a bit clearer. That isn't a symptom of any of the "classic" diseases. Looks like the wrasse has a bit of a pinched belly. Is it still eating well?

I wonder if it is indeed age related? We call these sorts of things "artifacts of captivity", where the fish just starts developing signs of wear and tear. I don't think it is the sex hormone issue that I mentioned before. I can't rule out Mycobacterium infection - aka fish tuberculosis. There is no treatment for that, and it mainly affects older fish.

Bottom line - I can't tell you to try any treatment for it.


Jay