Internal Parasites (?)

[darby504]

I'm afraid my two new freshwater angelfish have some kind of internal parasites. They are terribly thin; have white, stringy feces; and have poor appetites. Does it sound like they could be carrying a parasite load, or does something else come to mind?

I was thinking I might combine Focus and GarlicGuard with either AquaZole or Metronidazole. Would AquaZole or Metronidazole work better in this situation? Something else? Is this approach compatible with a planted tank?

If it matters, it's a 29g with 4 angelfish, 2 Siamese algae eaters, a bristlenose pleco, a rainbow shark and some snails.

Thanks very much in advance.

[Tech Support CH]

The white stingy feces is a definite sign that they are carrying a parasite load. If they are still eating the quickest
results will be seen using the medicated food recipe on the back of Garlic Guard.
"For enhanced effectiveness against Ich and other parasites use Seachem's Focus™ and Metronidazole as follows: Add 1 measure of Metronidazole to 1 measure of Focus™ per tablespoon of frozen food. Completely soak this food mix in GarlicGuard™, refrigerate, and feed once or twice daily for 1–2 weeks."

With freshwater fish you'll probably have better results with the Aquazole. The only difference between Aquazole and Metronitazole is that the Aquazole has extra potassium in it. Potassium is necessary for cellular transport and is usually not at the needed level in a freshwater system. A saltwater system has extremely high concentrations of Potassium already so it is unnecessary to add any extra.

[darby504]

Thanks very much for your reply. I appreciate your taking the time to explain the difference in the two products.

[Tech Support CH]

Your very Welcome! Glad to be of assistance.

[darby504]

Hello again.
The mail-order supply company sent the GarlicGuard and the AquaZole but cancelled the Focus from my order. The LFS does not carry Focus either. Can you advise how I might address this problem without the aid of the binding agent? Thank you.

[Tech Support CH]

You can still mix the recipe minus the focus. It will still work just a little slower.