General Care Discussion :: Similar question to brushing algae off

[turtle2373]

I've noticed that Striper has a "fuzzy, cotton-like" growth around his shell, and under his neck and by his "soft" spots. Is this algae too, or some kind of shedding? I didn't know if I should rinse him off when I clean his tank or if this is normal and leave it alone?

[DanielRES1180]

It depends on the look and location of the fuzz on Striper. If it's in flakes and is located on the skin (under the neck, legs, other soft spots) then it is a normal part of shedding. If it looks like a big blob of fuzz on his shell, this is probably algae and bacteria buildup. In this case I'd recommend cleaning the shell.

[steve]

[ note: I made this into a new topic ]

Is the "fuzzy, cotton-like" on the shell or on the skin? It sounds like skin shedding, is it translucent and wispy?

[typo fixed]

[marisa]

Can you post a picture? What do you mean by "soft spots" and that the cottony growth is around the shell? If it doesn't look like very thin wisps of tissue and but is a cotton-like growth, it's possible it's a fungus. A picture would help.

[turtle2373]

it's on his skin and some of it is coming off - i really think it's shedding
I'll try to take a picture.

[steve]

It's fairly common for captive RES to shed skin. Also, very warm temperatures contribute to excessive shedding (water should be around 75-78)

[turtle2373]

my digital camera sucks! You can't tell what it is. His water is a good temperature, but I'm thinking that he's ok - he's very active and happy-looking and likes to come to the glass and look at me when I come up to hte tank. Thank you for your advice.