Tumor on Apisto

[Cichlid Junkie]

I just came back from a 6 week work trip and noticed my big male had a tumor of sorts growing around the base of his pectoral fin and under his dorsal fin.

Anyone have an idea what it could be? It doesn't seem to be affecting him at all as he is still flaring at the female.

Tank Specs:
15g (24x12)
1 male / 1 female (hopefully will be a breeding pair) and 3 black neons.
78-79 degrees
6.8 ph
kh unknown

Thanks for your help.

 

[Mike Wise]

Looks like Lymphocystis to me. This is a viral disease usually caused by poor water conditions. Since it is a virus, antibiotics don't affect it. It is best to allow the fish's immune system to cure it. Just keep the water in top condition. It rarely is lethal if treated quickly.

 

[gerald]

If that is Lymphocystis, it's basically like warts on your skin: unsightly but relatively harmless as long as it just stays on the fins. It looks like pearly white cauliflower. The only serious problem I had with it was on some Nannacara taenia years ago where it grew around the anus/vent and "apparently" prevented that female from spawning again. It is contagious, but rather slowly, and doesn't affect all species. Mostly I've seen it on S.Amer cichlids and anabantoids. Watch out for lumps that appear to be boiling up from UNDER the skin (may be yellowish or pinkish). Those could be something else. Lympho is normally just on the skin surface.

 

[Cichlid Junkie]

It had been about 2 weeks since my buddy was able to come by and do a water change plus the auto feeders I have were feeding a bit to much, which contributed to build up of the cyno. I changed 80% of the water yesterday and added more wood and plants.

I'm running 2-20g sponge filters in the tank. Do you all think that is enough filtration or should I go with a HOB to increase water circulation?

 

[Mike Wise]

2 (or even 1) properly operating spong filters should be fine. I don't see the lift tube on the visible sponge filter. Do you use it? The lift tube increases the 'draw' of water through the sponge, increasing its effectiveness. Ideally, on air driven filters, the lift tube should be as tall as possible.

 

[Cichlid Junkie]

There was no lift tubes in the package when I bought these. I might have some old lift tubes hidden in a box some where. I'll see if they fit and use them. Thanks for the tip.

 

[Cichlid Junkie]

I had some hidden in a closet that, when attached, come up to just below the water line. Hopefully that helps. I'll do about 30% water changes every couple of days for the next few weeks to clean up any extra stuff that might be lingering.