White swollen lips

[vosef2x5]

My female clown just started with this i don’t know if it hurt itself on the rock work of it it’s an underlying disease any feedback would be appreciated.

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

My female clown just started with this i don’t know if it hurt itself on the rock work of it it’s an underlying disease any feedback would be appreciated.

Welcome to Reef2Reef!

The most common cause of this is "lip locking" where two clowns will grapple with each other in a push for dominance. You may not actually see it happen, just the physical results. One trick is to set up your phone to video the pair of fish and then leave the room. Reviewing the video will often show you what is happening.

The tank looks pretty new - how long have you had these fish?

 

[kevgib67]

Very common, my clowns went through this as well when they first were introduced. No ill effects and the color returns.

 

[vetteguy53081]

This also occurs when clowns are cleaning rocks for preparation of eggs and even glass surfing , chasing their reflection on the glass

 

[vosef2x5]

My female clown just started with this i don’t know if it hurt itself on the rock work of it it’s an underlying disease any feedback would be appreciated.

Welcome to Reef2Reef!

The most common cause of this is "lip locking" where two clowns will grapple with each other in a push for dominance. You may not actually see it happen, just the physical results. One trick is to set up your phone to video the pair of fish and then leave the room. Reviewing the video will often show you what is happening.

The tank looks pretty new - how long have you had these fish?

my tank just finished cycling these are the first fish in the tank they have been in there for about 5 days now

 

[MnFish1]

my tank just finished cycling these are the first fish in the tank they have been in there for about 5 days now

The most common 'cause' for this is pre-spawning behavior. If you are still concerned, the best thing is to carefully monitor the fish, even taking pictures to document if it's getting worse. Often clowns (since they breed so often) always have some kind of lightening around their lips, and it's not a concern. Worsening may be a concern

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

my tank just finished cycling these are the first fish in the tank they have been in there for about 5 days now

The clowns are most likely not paired up (yet). Watch for ripped fins or worsening condition. They may well work it out, but it bears a close eye.