Question Regarding E.M. Erythromycin

Oyster Man

Dear Tropical Fish Keeping,

I have noticed a few of my Black Ruby Bard developing the first stages of fin rot. I spoke to my local fish store, and they recommended E.M. Erythromycin for my aquarium. I decided that before I blindly add it to my aquarium, unaware of what may happen, I should first ask for profesional opinions.

I have a 29 gallon moderately planted aquarium. In the lid filter I have a bio wheel, "Fluval Biomax", and an H-sized charcoal cartridge. My aquarium's inhabitants are:
1.) One Anubius
2.) Several Crypts
3.) A few Water Sprite
4.) Four Black Ruby Barb

My biggest fear is that it may kill the beneficial bacteria in my aquarium.

All thanks is greatly appreciated.
-Oyster Man

Maxillius

the best would be a small hospital tank so like this you reduce the chance of a total tank medication!
aside from that im sorry I do not know the medicine your talking about

Byron

I wouldn't worry about the bacteria, as you have live plants, and Water Sprite is so fast growing it will easily assimilate all the ammonia your 4 fish can produce, plus the ammonia from the substrate bacteria.

I cannot comment on this being the best medication, I've very little experience in that. But as far as other issues, the only possible would be detrimental effects on the plants, perhaps. Antibiotics do sometimes affect certain plants, others not or less. But if it deals with the problem, use it. Might be useful to remove one or two small Water Sprite plants to another tank if you can, just in case; this is a delicate plant, and I can't say if antibiotics will or won't affect it.

Byron.