sick goldfish?

I just set up a new tank about a week ago with a lionhead and a black moor goldfish. The lionhead refuses to eat flakes and spits them out. It also regularly gasps for air at the surface. Its also quite lethargic and stays at the bottom of the tank, almost always in the same spot for hours without moving. Ive also seen a white string-like thing hang out from its gill. I suspect its sick, maybe gill fluke- but Im not sure. Do you have any advice as to what exactly is wrong and how to solve the problem? Thanks.:smile1:

 

definitely parasite problem

 

Thanks. Ive added some medication to my water. The fish is starting to swim around a bit more now. The treatment is a seven day course. im on the 3rd day. However the fish now refuses to eat. Im worried it may not go 7 days without food. Is there anything i can do to improve water conditions at this stage?

 

When you say you set up the tank about a week ago did you let it cycle?

 

Sounds like the fish were added the same day the tank was set up.

Problem #1 and probably the main problem.

 

I Agree