Illness/Sickness: Has my axy got a fungal infection? Rust coloured marking

[DavidF]

Hi Forum Members

I've attached a couple of images of my axy. I'm concerned it has an infection that needs treating. Can anyone identify the problem and give me pointers for the solution please.

Thanks in advance
David


Other points to note:

2 axys in a 3ft tank with chiller and filter systems, sand substrate
I'd need to check but axys are 6-8 years old.
Water chemistry is typically very stable. I've tested today and:
Ammonia and nitrite tests = 0
Nitrate =40.
PH = 7.4
I've just done a water change. I've not been vigilant with regular water changes.

 

[auntiejude]

How long has the mark been there? It looks like it's probably a cluster of xanthaphores - just an abundance of pigment, and completely harmless.

 

[xxianxx]

Check your filter for a hot spot, if it's got one it's prob on the bottom, those look like potential injuries especially as they are all in the same place.

 

[DavidF]

Thanks. I hope you are right because that means no sickness.

I've had the Axys for 6 years and I think it is a relatively new thing. Oh, now I don't know and feel like a bad parent. I've now got photos and will monitor. If there any adverse changes, I'll be back on the forum.

 

[DavidF]

Thanks.

When you say hot spot, if you mean a burn then I don't think that will be it. I've 2 sponge filters and a remote cannister filter pumping via a chiller. Nothing hot.

However, more broadly, perhaps you are on to something in that it might be a healing injury. There are plenty of objects in the tank that, if hit hard enough, could damage the soft axy. There are some logs supporting plant life.

For now, I'll monitor it and see if it improves or gets worse.

Thanks again
David