My little "scooter", The "Tiny Tim" of fish

[jordonsmum]

I must be losing my mind. I've developed a soft spot for a special little fry. Since I've moved the fry into the 42 gal (I'm keeping bare bottom for now because of cleaning purposes). I've noticed the runt of the group. Not because he's the smallest of the 91 fry but because he has a special circumstance. I think he was underdeveloped. Where there should be a tail fin, there is only a point. It doesn't look like it's been bitten it just looks like he was underdeveloped. I've called him scooter because he can't seem to get himself off the bare bottom of the tank and just scoots along looking for food. I was sure every night that I would wake up in the morning and find him dead. But he's proven me wrong now for about a week and seems to have a drive to live. If he survives and he's not ill, I think I may just have to keep this little guy. :yes: :;): Am I nutz or what....:laugh:

[Katalyst]

Not at all...And if you are nuts I am too (which is very likely)...One of my Thai Ranchu who is also called Scooter had similar problems. He has the perfect tail tuck but a good tail tuck can sometimes mean trouble swimming. He's getting better and stronger by the day and like you I have such a soft spot for him. Hopefully your little guy will improve with age like all of us women naturally do. :laugh: :twitcy:

When he's big enough I'd love to see some photo's.

[Melody]

The pointed tail in fry is usually clamping and the scooters (in Livebearers anyway) are belly sliders - for whatever reason they don't develop. Sometimes they recover but they're usually eaten or picked to death first, unfortunately. I usually give them a week and then euthanize. Good luck with him!

[jordonsmum]

I don't have the heart to euthanize him... he seems strong and quite happy to slide around the glass picking up food. He has lots of food for sure. I'll watch him.. cheers!

[Melody]

Yeah I'm like that too - the underdog...lol...but I've learned that they often suffer so that's when I put them down. The pinned fins are a sign of ill health too. Each situation is different though. Hope he does ok.