Dropsy in Zebra Danio???

[carlos05]

I was checking on the tank and I noticed one of my danios is somewhat bloated/swollen around the abdomen. I'm afraid it is dropsy and this would be the 2nd fish to have it (had a gourami that had the same issue a couple of years back). I wanted to double check and see what else it could be and what I should do. Unfortunately, I am out of town again but I can have someone do something if necessary. I posted some pics but the quality is not that good so I apologize. Any suggestions? Thanks

[lauraleellbp]

Pretty sure that's just a female filling up with eggs. Unless scales are sticking out making her look like a pinecone, but it's not showing up in the pic?

Would be a good idea to check your water parameters and do a good water change before you leave anyways, though.

[carlos05]

Thanks for the fast reponse...

I did a water change last week and probably should have done it today but I was afraid it might have been too soon. My GF is still at my place and I will ask her to do a WC before she leaves for vegas this sat. How long should she be swollen if in fact she does have eggs? Her behavior is normal otherwise...eating well, active, etc.

[lauraleellbp]

Depends on how far along she is now. Water temperature and other parameters factor into it as well. You'll tell when she's about to pop- she'll probably look a whole lot fatter than she is now, and start to get almost awkward when she swims. Water changes then sometimes spark spawning. If you've got some moss or other low-growing plants in the tank that's the most likely place for them to spawn. Most of the eggs and fry will probably get eaten unless you remove all the adults afterwards, though.