Sick filefish on its side

[Mrvictor5150]

I have an aptasia eating filefish this morning he was laying on his side with heavy breathing. Put him in a separate tank with an airstone but not sure how to treat. Any help would be great thank you

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

Can you give us more backstory on this?

How long have you had the filefish?
When was the last time it seemed normal (eating, etc.)?
What other fish have been exposed to it?
What are the water quality parameters of the tank it was in?
Are the invertebrates in that tank showing any issues?

The filefish is what is termed "moribund", close to death. It is rare to bring a fish back from this point. One thing you could try is a 5 minute freshwater dip. It may kill it outright, but it also might bring it some temporary relief. Also, you can check the bottom of the dip container for any flukes that may have fallen off it.

Jay

 

[Mrvictor5150]

There were some red small critters floating at the surface, unfortunately he passed a couple minutes ago and tossed out the water. I should've got a pic of them, crap.

How long have you had the filefish? Got home yesterday, drip acclimated him for 2 hours in 5 gallon bucket
When was the last time it seemed normal (eating, etc.)? Last night he took mysis well and was swimming towards the back of the tank
What other fish have been exposed to it? PlatinumClownfish lawnmower blenny
What are the water quality parameters of the tank it was in? Tank has been running for about 4 years mixed reef soft corals mostly flower anemone toadstool zoas and some aptasia I was trying to get rid of. Havnt tested in a couple months due to needed a new one. But everything else seems fine as in showing no signs of stress.
Are the invertebrates in that tank showing any issues? Hermits snails and sea hare cleaner shrimp and corals seem fine