Hello,

I am new to the forum and I have a big problem. My Pleco has been loosing scales from the top of its head down to the base of its top fin. The area is about 1 inch long and about 1/2 inch wide. When he is not on the bottom of the tank, he is hanging out by the water heater in such a way that I think he might be burning himself. He is 6 years old and about 13 inches long. I can't find any help on the web.

I will add some pictures as soon as I can.

Thanks for any help that you can provide.

Here is some tank info:
46 Gallon tank
Average temp is around 74
Other fish:
2 Bala Sharks (1 is 7 inches the other is 3.5 inches)
1 Large Angel (gold and white/silver with a little black, 5 inch body)
3 Neon Tetra's (1.5 inches each)
2 Red Guppies (I think that is what they are 2 inches each)
Round smooth gravel rock (about 2 inches deep)
Aquarium grade fake plants and buildings