Skunk loach has an inflamed mouth

[Dwarfs]

His mouth is open wide it seems, and his lips are swollen, but I have no clue what's wrong He's slowly swimming around, bumping into things occasionally, and he won't shoal with the other two skunk loaches I added some melafix, anyone know what's wrong/how to help? Any info on this would help, I need to know ASAP


PS- I have parasite meds (if parasites ar the problem) , but I am very reluctant to use them, because they will destroy my plants

 

[WILDER]

Sounds like you have an internal bacteria infection which causes certain parts of the body to swell, you will need to treat with anti internal bacteria med, and maybe add some salt if the fish you keep can tolerate it.

 

[Dwarfs]

Sounds like you have an internal bacteria infection which causes certain parts of the body to swell, you will need to treat with anti internal bacteria med, and maybe add some salt if the fish you keep can tolerate it.

Thanks, do you know of any anti bacterial meds? I have a rubbernose pleco so salt is out of the question I doubt the loaches could take it either

 

[WILDER]

Don't add salt, sorry, just use melafix instead, maracyn 2 should be fine or antibiotics.

 

[Dwarfs]

What are his chances of living, if you know? Hopeless, possible?
I don't know when I can out for those meds

 

[Dwarfs]

He's dead

 

[WILDER]

It needs treating fast, as the fish won't be able to eat soon, if you can get the meds quickly you might stand a chance of saving the fish.

 

[WILDER]

Sorry, must of posted while you were posting, do a few water changes in the tank he has come from, sorry for your loss.