Treating a Wounded Oranda: Mouth Injury, Infection, and Quarantine Care

Assessment

The fish has a severe mouth injury (likely from shipping or aggression) with secondary bacterial/fungal infection. The V-shaped throat opening suggests permanent damage.

Treatment Protocol

1. Move to a 10–20 gallon quarantine tank with aeration.
2. Add pond salt (0.3% = 3 g/L).
3. Treat with MelaFix (tea tree oil) and an antibiotic (kanamycin or nitrofurazone) per label.
4. Offer soft foods: soaked pellets, bloodworms, gel food.
5. Daily 25% water changes.

Prognosis

If the fish can't eat, humane euthanasia (clove oil) may be kindest. Consult a fish vet (koivet.com).