Dropping like flies

[Abbeys_Mom]

My fry were doing great, they are a months old now. Now in the last 2 days they have all been dropping dead. I am thinking it's swim bladder disease, since the symptoms are the same and it's a common problem with dwarf gourami fry. It really sucks, I only have about 25 left and they aren't looking good.

[hungryhound]

That sucks and I'm sorry to hear about your losses. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading your updates and it will be a sad day if the little guys don't make it.

[kimmers318]

Real bummer. What causes swim bladder disease? I am not real knowledgeable on it.

[Abbeys_Mom]

I don't know what causes it either, but from what I have read, certain foods make them prone to getting it. Last night when I counted I had 13 fry left.

[Lady Hobbs]

I read that Epsom salt works for swim bladder. You put some in a pail, add the affected fish and leave them in it for about 5-10 minutes.

I've also read the fry should have 25% of their water changed daily until they get a bit bigger.

[gm72]

SBD causes are unclear. Could be a virus, bacteria, food impaction, or genetics. I also have read that an epsom salt bath helps. Maybe don't feed them for a few days and see if that helps?

[Abbeys_Mom]

They are now all gone. A months worth of work down the toilet, literally.

[gm72]

Wow, that really sucks. Sorry to hear of the loss. Must have gotten an infection of some kind from somewhere. Were your water parameters good (I imagine yes)?

[YaYgoldFish]

Well thats a bummer...

[Mark Lathrop]

Crud. Sorry to read this. I enjoyed all of your postings on them as I am nurturing fry right now. It really is a ton of work with the 50% daily water changes and the specialty diet etc., I feel your pain.