Depressed Dojos? Or, is it me?

[juniperlea]

I have/had 3, almost 11" Golden Dojos. Carry, Loe and Murly. I was siphoning water last week, and Murly got his head etc caught in the suction pipe. A few days later, I noticed his flesh was missing, bloodly splotches, exposed 'muscles', white patches, wasn't eating etc.... Long story short, I knew he would become infected, that I couldn't 'cure' him and the infection might cause damage to the other fish. It's cold and several inches of snow. Will leave it at that. Anyway, Loe and Carry aren't interested in food. The other fish seem 'off', too. Anyway fish psychologists out there?

 

[emmykenzie]

Sorry about Murly!!! Loaches are social creatures and most definitely prefer to be in groups of 3+, Dojo loaches are not an exception to this. I would definitely suggest picking up another loach but be sure to careful quarantine before adding it to the tank as not to introduce disease.

Additionally, I've been doing a good bit of reading about clove oil (Make sure it does not contain any alcohol) and euthanasia. You essentially overdose the fish with clove oil ()
I don't mean to sound all "PETA" on you, just wanted to spread some good information for future reference.

I also just finished reading an excellent book: Loaches: Complete Guide to Keeping Loaches. Including Clown Loach, Kuhli Loach, Dojo Loach and Many Other Species.: Martin, James: 9788299935401: Amazon.com: Books It's a great read if you are a loach lover like myself.
Hopefully your little buddies will be happy once more.

Best, Emily

 

[juniperlea]

Just an update. The two remaining had cotton mouth. I attached emotion to them without noticing at first. They're in a hospital tank and am treating. Getting better, even eating a little, but not out of the woods yet. Lesson learned for me not to jump to emotional conclusions.

 

[emmykenzie]

juniperlea We learn something new everyday! Always be patient with your little guys one thing you’ll see here over and over again is water changes work wonders. XD