Parasite treatment for large Calico Oranda

[radu]

Hi

Have got an oranda that I recently purchased with the symptoms that have been figured out to probably have parasites. He flashes quite often and sits at the bottom of the tank often. Has does have times he is quite active and his appetitie is very good, though I do wonder how much food he does get as his hood seems to cover his eyes a tad. From reading earlier posts figured that Malachite would do the job, added 170 drops to a 205 litre tank and added some aquarium salt. Was most disappointed when going to the pet shop as I was recommended by a American website a couple of excellent products that of course are not available here in NZ. In fact, did not find anything that remotely resembled a parasite treatment. I also put the temp up to 28 degrees, just wondering if what I have done is all I can do so far. Also, wondered about the biological filter, am I to experience problems with cycling once again? Hate for that to happen as that experience nearly put my off fish keeping for good! By the way the fish is calico, and so I cannot see any signs of itch even on his head which is orange.

[alanmin4304]

Most goldfish have parasites including skin and gill flukes. Salt will usually decrease the numbers to a more acceptable leval

[Caper]

When I had the trouble with my fish (not my goldfish) flashing I used "Parasite Clear" tablets. I can't recall the directions at present, but the treatment worked. One platy in particular was not good at all, thought I was going to loose him...but he pulled through.

How often are you doing water changes? Have you tested the water?

[radu]

Hi

Thanks for the info, I do believe I read the posts previously about this product. But when I went into the pet shop and looked for this and even rang a petshop and asked them for this no one could help. I went to the Hutt Pet shop yesterday and he is pretty much well stocked in what is available. Nothing there except the malachite green. So took what I could find. The oranda still seems listless at times (been 24 hours since starting treatment) the rest still seem fine. Hate having to wait this out to see if anything improves, as I worry about my fish a lot, and I guess this is the only forum that you can express these worries and have people relate to you and not think you strange!