since my last post i tried to treat for an internal/external bacterial infection with pima/melafix combo. not only did the combination of the two smells really get to me, i dont think it was helping at all. in fact he perked up a little bit as soon as i did the next water change. needless to say, i didnt continue this treatment.

lurch was still scratching and had clamped fins sometimes. he also liked to hang out right under the water return. this combined with a lack of appetite really had me freaking out. happy goldfish tells me that he might still have a parasite infestation going on. i have been keeping a VERY close eye on him lately and i havent seen one speck of visual evidence on him. can i assume that it could be trichodina, chilodonella or costia????

i just got rid of the columnaris(i think). no more threads in his mouth. no more thick slime coat. no more blotches and blisters on his tail. on a tip from a fellow gf lover, i started a 3 day med cycle of rid ich+. now, (2nd day) he is actually very active again and hasnt clamped his fins all day. he hasnt scratched at all either. he doesnt hang out under the return as much either. he seems to be getting better a little bit more each day. my only complaint is that he wont eat any of his regular food any more (mini pellets and flakes) none. instead, he seems to pace his tank waiting for me to drop peas in. or mealworms and grapes (all of wich he loves!)

am i just paranoid and dont notice that he is getting better because i see him every and sit by his tank for at least 3 hours every day??? jeez, i sure hope so!!!!