Fin rot?

[follicle]

So, tonight I'm doing my usual "pass the time by looking at the fish" routine, when I notice that one of the frontal fins of my Black Ghost Knife is noticeably shorter than the other. I also noticed that there is a pretty large gap in his tail. Of course, my first thought is fin rot, but it could be a battle wound. I have three Serpae Tetras and two Rosy Barbs in the tank along side him. Could they have done this?

In any case, if it is fin rot, what should I do? I'm good on water changes, since I do a 25-35% water change every weekend. I've read a lot of different methods to cure a fin rot case, but I'm not sure what would be the best, so as usual, I turn to the forum! I just want to prevent any other fish from getting fin rot.

And another question. I'm sure the answer is no, but is fin rot irreversible? I just feel really bad for the guy.

Thanks!

 

[missileman]

Fin rot is treatable but it sounds more like damage than rot.
In either case I would treat with Melafix to prevent fin rot and aid in healing.
Fin rot is not contagious but it is easier to treat if you can quarantine the fish.

 

[follicle]

Thanks for the reply. I think I'll watch him during next and keep an eye out for any worsening symptoms.

So if I do end up treating him, I have to quarantine him? How long should I keep him separated after treating?

Thanks.

 

[missileman]

You don't HAVE to quarantine, it is just easier. especially if you have a large tank. Quarantining to a small tank means you will need less meds and you are medicating fish that don't need it although the meds used to treat it will not hurt the other fish.

 

[follicle]

Ok. Sounds good. Thanks for the info!