Black Chin

Symptoms: Small, grey-black patches, initially on the lower jaw area.  It is often accompanied by a stress-line, especially in species with white bellies.  The tank often exhibits increased algal growth.

Treatment: Improve the water quality through partial water changes.  Be sure the water used is free of nitrates (or very low in nitrate content).  More than one change may be needed, but give the puffer 2-3 days to show improvement before doing the next change.

Background: While black chin has not been scientifically investigated, the condition is related to high nitrate levels (See also nitrate poisoning).  The illness can be caused by a nitrate level of greater than 25 ppm.

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