Angel with split fin on the side

**angellover** · 09-18-2009, 04:20 AM

The 3 angelfish ordered online have arrived today. Two of them are in good shape. the other one has a split fin on its right side. So it is leaning on its right side when moving around in the tank. At this point, I am not sure what cause the fin to split. There could be many reasons since the fish were in transit for two days. How can I determine the cause? Can the fin (on the side) heal by itself? If so, whatelse I can do to speed up the healing if it is possible? Thanks for your help!

**trojannemo** · 09-18-2009, 01:18 PM

provided the fin was damaged rather than it being a genetic defect, then it will heal. just make sure to provide the fish with clean water

**Northernguy** · 09-18-2009, 01:32 PM

Agreed! All my fish get torn fins once in a while.They do heal fast as long as the water is kept pristine.
If the rip goes down to the meat then some melafix will help.
Water changes are as good as meds in some cases.

**Jaster** · 09-18-2009, 01:38 PM

I've had it happen a couple times with my Angels. They will heal up. Like others said, just keep the water right and keep an eye on him.

**Taurus** · 09-18-2009, 02:24 PM

Yup, clean water and quality food. Do not over feed.

**Oscar_freak12321** · 09-18-2009, 02:25 PM

^^^ Yeah, that.

**DrNic** · 09-18-2009, 03:03 PM

Be careful with split side fins. Since angelfish use them more than most fish for lateral movement they don't always heal as pretty as one would like.

If the fish is obviously leaning on that side however odds are it's in pain. You should start a treatment of anti-fungals if you haven't already to avoid infection.

**angellover** · 09-19-2009, 03:41 AM

Thx all! The fish is not leaning to its side anymore today even though it still has a split fin on the side. I will keep an eye on the fish as well as the water quality.