Ah. I got mixed up.This is not my post. I had a situation where I experienced this exact situation, and I want to know what to do in the future if I ever come across this again.
@Jay Hemdal Let’s ignore the fact this fish is heavy breathing for a second. How can we know for certain the OP knows what heavy breathing looks like? I even have trouble identifying heavy breathing!
Now here’s why I’m worried about keeping the copper. First, we don’t know how long this fish has been in copper for, but we know it’s been at least 3 days.
Ich nor velvet causes this lip issue. The fish probably got a wound from hitting itself, the net, etc.
I really don’t think it’s likely a parasite infestation is causing this. Especially if it’s already been 3+ days.
This fish isn’t eating, and that’s the main issue. Most probably because of the swollen lips.
If this was my fish I’d get it into antibiotics ASAP. Copper only suppresses appetite and lowers immune system. Do you have a way to reduce inflammation and get the fish eating while in copper?
I still go by my suggestion with colder water and antibiotics. The colder water also improves oxygen.
If you were worried about parasite infestation you could do a freshwater dip daily or every few days.
If a fish refuses to eat big red flags raise for me.
I honestly think erythromycin isn’t strong/fast enough. I think I’d feel better with the trifecta of metronidazole, furan 2, and Kanaplex.