Danio with growth on face

[jlbfish]

I have a glo danio that has a growth on his face. It just keeps getting bigger and bigger. Last time he had it I got it off with a QTip. I'm sure it was very stressful for him. Wasn't sure if it was a parasite or not. Anyway does anyone have any advice should I just leave it? The pics aren't great. It's the growth in the right.

Thanks!

 

[absolutangel04]

I do not know what that is. It does not look like an parasite that I personally know of.
Is the fish acting normal? Swimming ok, eating, and all that jazz?

 

[jlbfish]

It isn't a parasite just a growth, wart, tumor or something. I just call it a booger for now.

He is eating well and acting normal. My concern is it is growing exponentially at some point it's going to be huge. Not sure if I am going to need to do something about it. :/

Thanks!

 

[jlk]

The pics are a bit fuzzy but it looks like lymphocystis, sometimes called cauliflower disease. Its a viral disease and fairly common in goldfish. There is no treatment but removal of the growth is sometimes necessary when it impairs a fish's ability to eat, swim, breathe, etc. The virus will not kill a fish but complications from the growth or secondary infection may. Usually, it will run its course on its own. Limiting stress, keeping the water pristine and feeding a nutritious diet to keep the immune system strong are the best defenses. There is a risk of it spreading to other like species (ie, danio to danio) and some people suggest either isolation or euthanasia for this reason. Heres some more info:

http://www.aquarticles.com/articles/management/Lawler_Lymphocystis.html

 

[jlbfish]

Thanks ill check it out!