Only using one gill

[susankay1]

Tank size: 29 gallon
Temp: 87
Ammonia: 0
Nitrites: 0
Nitrates: 0
W/C: Daily 50%, sometimes 2x daily

I have 2 adult white butterflies that I recently purchased and today I noticed one of them breathing out of one gill. Not particularly fast, just not using both gills. Neither fish is exhibiting any signs of illness. They are both eating bloodworms when offered. Do I need to treat this or am I jumping the gun. Been known to be a bit overprotective at times. Advise please!!!!

[Ardan]

Hi,
If only using one gill can be flukes or an infection.
As a first try you may want to try formalin at 3 drops/gallon with a 50% wc after 8 hrs. This will help at least temporarily. Use extra aeration, temp 86F. You can do this every other day for 1 to 2 wks. Use good ventilation, keep off skin, and don't use if the formalin is white.
Here is an article on flukes http://forum.simplydiscus.com//index.php?board=4;action=display;threadid=1075
Flubendazole or praziquantel is good for flukes.

hth