Re: Disease of Rams

[HSIAOTSU@aol.com]

In a message dated 2/9/2001 7:53:19 AM Central Standard Time, 
sales_info@pacific.net.ph writes:


> I have this condition wherein my ram will have its eyes swell as if it will
> pop out and the they become grapping for air and their color begins to
> darken.  After a few days in this condition the ram dies!  I would like to
> know what could be causing this and what is this condition?  How could this
> be treated if there is a treatment?


This is actually a natural death, observed when rams approach 15+ months.  
Rams are virtually annuals in their native environment, pools which dry out 
annually.  In the tank, they will typically die of old age around 18 months.  
By the time a male develops good color, this fish is typically 9 months old.  
By the way, such fish are usually past prime spawning age.  Full color fish, 
1.25" long + tail, are usually 12+ months.  

Willie