Hi -

Noticed two days ago that my pleco had distended belly and some small cloudy blisters. I'm relatively new to keeping fish. Researching I came up with two possibilities for distended belly - dropsy or constipation. I have quarantined him to a small tank with airstone, treated with Jungle Fizz and put some peas in the tank hoping he will eat them for laxative effect. I've had to change the water a couple of times, so I'm concerned maybe the treatment isn't giving full effect, and no change in belly.

I've not found anything online that can tell me about the blisters, which have grown considerably. Pictures are attached, can anyone shed any light on my poor buddy's problems and how to help him out?

Incidentally, no real water quality issues in main tank, had been about a week since a water change and all tests came up in acceptable range. Other fish in there is a medium-sized cichlid who has not been affected.

Thanks.
c.

Could maybe be ulcers other than that I can't help much. Good luck

Yeah, unfortunately I lost him. I treated the water with a couple of medicinal packages, he hung on for about a week and a half, but never got better and eventually passed.

Sorry to hear that.

What kind of pleco is was he anyway ?
And how long have you been keeping him ?

If its straight from the shop, then most probably it was already half way through when u picked him up. Issit a Gold nugget ???