Illness/Sickness: Axolotl veiny and bump on head

[EmJ]

For some time now my axolotl has had a bump/ lump on her head just in front of her gills. Furthermore her gill filaments are lacking (have been for some time) and her skin appears to be in poor condition (very veiny, possibly lacking slime coat?). I have had problems in reducing the levels of nitrate in her tank recently as tap water is testing just as highly, so I have started changing the water with spring water to bring the nitrates down. What could be causing this lump and poor skin condition and how might I treat her? Currently ammonia is 0ppm, nitrite 0ppm, nitrates 40-80ppm. Temperature is typically 16-18 degrees c, tank is planted with elodea, Java fern and Java moss (with moss balls) and is 190 litres. She is fed on earthworms and earthworm pellets.

 

[Donna001]

Hi EmJ.
I have 2 tanks containing 3 axolotls each, plus multiple temperate and tropical fish tanks. My tapwater also has nitrates of 40ppm, and it doesn't seem to be a problem, but I have noticed a reduction in the levels in tanks where I have Amazonian frogbit. I'm finding floating plants particularly good for this sort of thing and a few people of the fish forum that I use are also mentioning that they are seeing a drop in nitrates when using frogbit.
As for your axolotl, I'm quite a new owner and don't have a huge amount of experience, so perhaps one of the more experienced keepers will be able to help you.
If in doubt you could always consult a specialist vet. Herp Veterinarians
Best of luck with your axolotl and please keep us posted on your progress. :happy:

 

[Donna001]

I have noticed on one of the other threads that someone has posted to say that their axolotl, when it looked red and veiny, had septicaemia which required veterinary intervention and antibiotics to resolve. I think this may be relevant to your situation, so perhaps it would be worth looking at the herp vet list I posted to find a specialist vet I your area.
Best of luck.