AboutRon Coleman Expertise I am an expert on cichlid fishes, particularly New World cichlids. My broader expertise includes the behavior, ecology and reproduction of fishes in general. (I am NOT an expert on Goldfish). Please do not use abbreviations, such as "my GT has a swollen eye" because I don't know what a "GT" is. The more clearly you can explain your question, the better chance I have of understanding what it is that you seek. I keep fishes both as a scientist and as a hobbyist and I currently maintain about 140 aquariums.
Experience I am an Assistant Professor at the California State University, Sacramento in the Department of Biological Sciences, and I run a website, called the Cichlid Research Home Page . I also write for many popular aquarist magazines, and I am editor of Cichlid News magazine. I am a scientist and I spend my time teaching fish biology, ecology, behavior and evolution and doing research on the reproductive biology of fishes, particularly cichlids. I do research in the laboratory and in Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Mexico. My main interest is understanding the evolution of parental care in fishes. I am interested in encouraging greater public awareness, understanding and participation in science.
Publications Cichlid News, Tropical Fish Hobbyist, Freshwater and Marine Aquarium, Science, Behavioural Ecology and Sociobiology, Copeia, Canadian Journal of Zoology, Trends in Ecology and Evolution, AUK, Environmental Biology of Fishes
Question QUESTION: I have ciclids, one dark blue ciclid and another is slightly orange tint. I separated the two with the divider once i saw that the smaller ciclid's fin was completely gone. The smaller (light orange) fish doesn't swim normally and always seem to open the mouth as though eating. Will the fins regenerate? Should i give the fish some sort of treatment?
ANSWER: Hi Venny,
In general, damaged fins can grow back, if given a chance. I would not treat unless you see fungus growing on the wound.
-- Ron
rcoleman@cichlidresearch.com
Cichlid Research Home Page <http://cichlidresearch.com>
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QUESTION: What is a good description of fungus? I see patch white scales and flesh wounds. How long will it take for the dorsal fins to grow back? thanks.
Answer Hi Venny,
Fungus looks like white, cottony fluffy stuff growing out of the wound.
The length of time it takes for the fin to grow back depends on the extent of the damage. If it was minor damage, it could take a few weeks. If it was major damage it could take a year or more. If the damage is very severe and goes down into the flesh of the fish, that part of the fin won't likely grow back.
-- Ron
rcoleman@cichlidresearch.com
Cichlid Research Home Page <http://cichlidresearch.com>
