Identification help

[larsonsar]

Hey Guys
I'm hoping you can help me identify the demons on these slides. Mikroll sent me to you. I did a course of Formalin 6 weeks ago but this telescope butterfly is still bottom sitting, yawning and flicking. Pale color and now opaque white patches on the tail. I have a microscope now and hope you can access these pictures on Photobucket.

The first two slides are a scrape from one of the white spots on the tail (not fuzzy like a fungus, and nothing on the fin edges) The rest of the slides were from scrapes behind the operculum, dorsal area and belly...showing perhaps a different critter. I found these organisms everywhere including inside the gill. Methylene Blue dips have knocked them back tremendously, but there are constantly one or two tiny little groupings where they are re-emerging. Suggestions have been velvet and tetrahymena... none of these organisms move whatsoever.
Thanks for having a go at this !
Amy
http://s670.photobucket.com/albums/vv65/larsonsar/Luna%20parasites/

[larsonsar]

I also forgot to mention that this fish dropsied at the end of the formalin a month ago. The scales tightened down again in three days with Metro Meds, Epsom/MB dips and .3 salt in the tank. I have just finished feeding Metro Meds and he is back on NLS.
I have added a photo of the tail spot to my Photobucket album.

http://s670.photobucket.com/albums/vv65/larsonsar/Luna%20parasites/

[suphi]

I think they're some sort of parasitic protozoa, it's just strange that they're not moving. Don't think tetrahymena (shape isn't teardrop in the slide). I don't think you need a definitive diagnosis to treat either, since a lot of parasite meds already have wide coverage.

I'd use Coppersafe since I already have it at home, but if you don't like copper try Proform-C. When you treat don't just treat the fish, treat the tank, equipments, etc...otherwise the problem will recur.

[dnalex]

Hey,

Were those scrapes done before or after the MMs?

I've used Coppersafe before. Just make sure you are able to measure how much copper you have in your system.

[larsonsar]

The scrapes were done in the last couple of days. After 3 weeks of MM. This tank has been through one course of Formalin... and before that, a full course of Coppersafe for Velvet. (before I had my scope, so was guessing. Fish had a rust covered slime.... not really classic velvet, but best guess)

Also best guess, is that the copper was not sustained at a therapeutic level because I could not get a test that worked. A common problem with copper tests, I understand. Suggestions appreciated here as well.

I have Quick Cure and API Super Ich Cure (MG and Nitrafurazone) I would need to order Proform... no problem if that is the best thing to use. My biggest concern is how to treat effectively without sending this fish over the edge again. The dropsy was a month ago, when I started the MM.

Thanks for advice guys... really appreciate the help.