White "bump"(?) on tail

[Cheeze]

Just got this Royal Gramma from saltwaterfish.com yesterday...looked fine in the bag and when acclimating, but during first feeding (when he came out of hiding) I noticed these two white "things" that looked attached or growing on its tail. No erratic behavior (at least for a royal gramma), the fish ate well and all other coloring is vibrant. Any one know what it may be?

Sorry the pics aren't too clear, it was hard trying to snap him before he went back into hiding.

 

[Cheeze]

Pic of the white spec

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

Sorry - the pictures just aren't clear enough for me to be able to tell you what that is. The three common afflictions would be Lymphocystis, Microsporidian (xenomas) or encysted trematodes. I'd rule out Lympho as the spots are not along the fin edges as they usually are. I'd say they are trematode cysts or Microsporidians. There is no treatment for the Microsporidians, but I don't think it is always fatal. Encysted trematodes are also unlikely to be fatal, and they are tough to treat - perhaps Prazipro in the water.

Jay

 

[Cheeze]

Quick update: about 2-3 days ago the two "marks" have completely disappeared, and the gramma is still looking healthy and happy!

Thanks Jay, your expertise and feedback to all these posts is greatly appreciated!!