Pictus barbels-cause for concern

aunt kymmie

Just wondering if this is something I should be concerned about. The other day I noticed my Pictus had curly cues on the ends of his main barbels. It looked as if he was sporting a handlebar mustache. It was like this for about 24 to 36 hours. I had done an ich treatment that lasted 12 long days and a massive water change (approx. 45%) after the 12 days. About three days after the water change is when I saw this *mustache* and it's gone now. He's now back to his standard looking barbels. What was that all about??

Twistersmom

well, I am no expert, But my 4 line cat lost almost all his wiskers when I was treating for ick. They all grew back in time, and he has been in great health since. So, I dont think its anything to worry about. My cat lost his wiskers using half dose of (Ick Cure). I will no longer use ick meds with my catfish, going to stick with the heat treatment if needed.

aunt kymmie

Thanks for that info. I had a feeling that was the cause. I'm glad they straightened. I love this fish and it had me bummed that I had harmed him. Sad to say I did do the salt/heat treatment but after two weeks was still seeing spots on my clowns. I felt the heat was stressing my barbs so I turned to the meds. I'm ich free now but still feel bad about my pictus. I had NO idea they can grow back lost barbels.