Fish mouth parasite

[korengabizon]

I suspect that there is a worm-like parasite residing inside the mouth of my banggai cardinal fish. The fish is quite small and has refrained from eating for several days, even rejecting frozen foods. After a brief description to the AI model, it suggested that the parasite could possibly be a parasitic copepod, which may be manually removed. I am curious if anyone has encountered a similar situation and can provide insight into what this parasite might be and how to effectively address it. Unfortunately, I do not currently possess a cleaner shrimp, as I am awaiting their availability in local stores.

 

[vetteguy53081]

I suspect that there is a worm-like parasite residing inside the mouth of my banggai cardinal fish. The fish is quite small and has refrained from eating for several days, even rejecting frozen foods. After a brief description to the AI model, it suggested that the parasite could possibly be a parasitic copepod, which may be manually removed. I am curious if anyone has encountered a similar situation and can provide insight into what this parasite might be and how to effectively address it. Unfortunately, I do not currently possess a cleaner shrimp, as I am awaiting their availability in local stores.

This is a skin tang likely from something ingested that caused skin to tear or other injury which should heal on its own. What foods have you fed or are feeding?

 

[Privateye]

They're probably thinking it's something like this

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

I suspect that there is a worm-like parasite residing inside the mouth of my banggai cardinal fish. The fish is quite small and has refrained from eating for several days, even rejecting frozen foods. After a brief description to the AI model, it suggested that the parasite could possibly be a parasitic copepod, which may be manually removed. I am curious if anyone has encountered a similar situation and can provide insight into what this parasite might be and how to effectively address it. Unfortunately, I do not currently possess a cleaner shrimp, as I am awaiting their availability in local stores.

I agree, this looks like a skin tag. It is not the copepod mouth parasite.
I’ve not seen Ergasilus on cardinal fish, but maybe?
The not eating is a serious issue with these fish. How long have you had this fish? Do you know if it was captive raised or wild caught?
Jay

 

[korengabizon]

I have no idea prob captive though

 

[korengabizon]

They're probably thinking it's something like this

yesss