unclenedsfishfactory.com

Odd subject line, but it got your attention, no?

Some of my cichlids have lately been going after their food as normal, chewing it, and spitting it out - not really swallowing much of it (if any).

What could this be? A parasite? Bloat? Sick of the meal options?

(I've had bloat before, and there are no other signs of bloat evident. Bloated bellies, lackadaisical behavior, lack of interest in the food, etc.)

What could this be? A parasite? Bloat? Sick of the meal options?

Yes, Yes, AND yes.

You certainly have a problem...
I would get some metronidazole as soon as possible
(I'm out as I write this)
or Clout (clout I have in stock now) if Metronidazaole is not available...
check all your conditions...
freshness of the food,
low pH,
low oxygen,
check everything
...then follow these directions
https://unclenedsfishfactory.com/Library ... Bloat.html

Metronidazole just in
we just got in
200 Metronidazole pills
$1.00 each (each pill treats 20 gallons)
great stuff to keep on hand
...also works on some types of saltwater ick,
and many other protozoa

I bought a "package" of it from Tropical in Framingham. ABout how long should i dose my tank? I've done two doses already. At what point should I throw in the towel?

re-treat after a partial water change
every day
for 7 days