Who Gives A Fish Forums

I had to put one of my guppies down yesterday, and it's still bothering me. She was clearly in distress, and I couldn't just let her suffer. I'm wondering if anyone might have some idea what could have caused it, in case it happens again and I can take action.

I came home to find her lying on the tank floor, barely able to move. She could use her pectoral fins to drag herself a tiny bit, but her tail was completely still. In the days leading up, I'd noticed she seemed a bit lethargic, but she was still swimming and eating okay.

My water parameters were fine - zero ammonia and nitrites, and very low nitrates. I've been doing regular water changes, at least once a week. I know it's unlikely I'll get a proper diagnosis now, but I'm just curious if anyone has any thoughts.

I know I shouldn't have gotten attached, but she was my favourite. Putting her down was really tough.

There are a few possibilities that come to mind. A cyst or tumour could be the culprit, or maybe even an aneurism. I've also considered the possibility of an injury, although I'm not sure how that would have occurred in the tank. None of these options are particularly good, but they do seem to align with the symptoms you described, especially the paralysis.

My condolences for losing your guppy. I went through a similar experience last year, losing my 16-year-old Pleco and 13-year-old Cory. It's tough when they've been with you for so long, and you've done everything you can to care for them.

Flipside wrote: ↑Fri Mar 24, 2023 1:53 am My condolences for losing your guppy. I went through a similar experience last year, losing my 16-year-old Pleco and 13-year-old Cory. It's tough when they've been with you for so long, and you've done everything you can to care for them.

Thanks for the sympathy, guys.