Sunken Stomach Pleco

[LLC]

Found all of my pleco (3 types) in my planted tanks have sunken stomach They are introduced in the a mature tank 1 month ago. Did a search in AQ and found that the cause is probably TB. Is there any cure?

They are ok when I brought them. Is there a possibilities that they got it from the cardina or rummy nose in the tank? Any pre-cautions need to be taken? Thanks.

[benny]

They could also be worm infestation.

Does your pleco have sunken eyes as well? If not, there is still hope to nurse them back to health.

What was their diet for the last month? Where was the pleco from? Another tank or from the shop?

By the way, not all plecos are planted tank friendly. I'm sure you know that right?

Cheers,

[LLC]

Hi Benny,

There eyes looks ok. The plecos are from Gan and Ben.
I do not feed them anything as they feed on algae in the tank.

Yap, I know not all pleco are planted friendly. Mine are.
So, if it is not TB then how do I cure the worm problem?

Thanks.

[benny]

From the sound of it, they are starving as they've not been properly fed for a month. Trying feed them. Perhaps algae wafers or sinking pellets.

If it's worms, then you need to consider dewormer. You can use the type for discus commonly available in the shops.

Cheers,

[LLC]

Hi Benny, I don't think they are starving as I could see them nibbling on the leaves and the glass wall all the times. They also shit quite often.

Most likely its worms. Will try to get dewormer. Thanks.

[valice]

Try using Sera Baktotab.
It is medicated food in tablet form.
Drop in a tab everyday. Feed your pleco for one week and nothing else. Should help.

[LLC]

There is one more problem, I have cardina and rummy nose in the same tank. Do I need to de-worm them too? They look ok.

Hi Valice, thanks for the help. I will separate them and get the tablet tomorrow.