pls help - bloated/swollen mouth

[brettkeung]

Hey

I had 6 malawi cichlids in my tank. The tank is still relatively new. Its about 4 weeks old now. Upon introducing the fish , everything was fine, well for the first 3 weeks. Then one of my fish started developing some strange bulge under its jaw. Causing it no to be able to open its mouth. All the others have been active and eating well. Until this monday that passed. I decided to give them a day of fasting. And did not feed them on monday. And ever since they have not been eating much. Or have been as active.

And then found one of my zebras dead this morning. (This is not the fish with the swollen mouth) none of the fish have any any signs of sickness , besides the one with the swollen mouth. I have attempted to add some treatment - called "heal all".

If u guys have any insight on my situation pls it will be highly appreciated thanks

[Lisachromis]

The one with the swollen mouth could be a female carrying young. They often look like like they are 'chewing gum' (have a bulge under their jaw) during this time and refuse to even eat (though some do). No idea as to why the one fish died. I doubt it had anything to do with the fact you didn't feed for one day.

When was the last time you did a water change? Do you know what you local water is like? What are you feeding?

[brettkeung]

I have not ever performed a water change as yet .I have no idea what my tap water is like. But I have tested the ph levels and I have treated the water against heavy metals. I am currently feeding them tetra bits.

And recently another fish died. One of the same species as the previous one. I also noticed that there mess is a almost a white colour. Where before it was usually the colour of the food. I dunno if that shows any symtons of a parasite.

Thanks