Red bits on commets? - what is it? - WITH pic?

Question

My commets have started to get red bits on them what is it and what should i do i have 2 of them in a 40 gallon tank, I have taken all the gravel and deco out and washed the tank, Should i get medication? [pic] : http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l13/dunozl/Photo-0135.jpg
There only about 3inch just now and i know i fill have to upgrade the tank, Im planning on a 75 gallon in august

Answer 1

Those red area in the fins are often called septicemia and is an indication of an infection. Actually the infection is called septicemia and can be caused by several different bacterial problems. You need to treat the tank with a quality antibiotic and feed the fish medicated foods.

I would suggest the antibiotic Furanace as the best choice for this problem. If you can't get that tetracycline is an ok substitute. The medicated food is sold in most pet stores, just be sure you get the one for bacterial problems, not the one for parasites.

Treat as directed on the package for 10 days to 2 weeks and feed the medicated food for at least that long as well.

Be careful to closely watch your ammonia levels during and after the treatment. Not only did you badly damage the cycle with all the cleaning, but the antibiotics will kill any beneficial bacteria your cleaning missed and cause ammonia problems until the tank can cycle again.

MM