Treating Internal Parasites in DT

OKIReef · Dec 12, 2020

Hello everybody! I recently set up my first saltwater fish tank (IM14) and added two clownfish after the cycle concluded. After a few days of feeding and observation I noticed some white stringy poop trailing from one of the two clowns, which leads me to believe they have some sort of internal parasite based on what I have read online. The only other inhabitants in the display are two nassarius snails but I do plan on putting coral in down the line. Firstly, I would like to know if I should wait to see more symptoms or act immediately. Secondly, I would like to know if there is a treatment I can use that will allow me to treat my fish while also having coral and other inverts in the display in the future. From what I have read praziquantel will kill certain worms/feather dusters in the tank, but is that effect permanent? I know metro is not reef safe but for how long will it remain in my DT? I understand that I should have quarantined and will do so with any other additions to the tank. I am willing to set up a QT and let the tank sit fallow if I have to but I will be traveling the first week of January so having them in the DT would be optimal. Any help is greatly appreciated!

lapin · Dec 12, 2020

I would try the metroplex / focus combo.
It might or might not be parasites. Some fish just have the long poop.
It cant hurt as long as the inverts dont eat it, which should be easy to control.

Jay Hemdal · Dec 12, 2020

I wouldn’t treat for that in the absence of other symptoms. Look for clamped fins, shimmying, rapid breathing or decreased appetite. Prazipro can be used with most invertebrates and it dissipates in a few days. Before trying medicated food, read the article I posted in the articles section here, I think it is about 6 down on the list.
Jay

OKIReef · Dec 12, 2020

lapin said:
I would try the metroplex / focus combo.
It might or might not be parasites. Some fish just have the long poop.
It cant hurt as long as the inverts dont eat it, which should be easy to control.

Jay Hemdal said:
I wouldn’t treat for that in the absence of other symptoms. Look for clamped fins, shimmying, rapid breathing or decreased appetite. Prazipro can be used with most invertebrates and it dissipates in a few days. Before trying medicated food, read the article I posted in the articles section here, I think it is about 6 down on the list.
Jay

Thanks so much for the advice! I'll keep an eye on them for other symptoms and make sure to read that post before taking any action