A few weeks ago we were very lucky to have Aquarium Co-Op's Cory McElroy present at SFAS on the topic of medicating fish (a complicated subject if you do a quick Google search). Zenzo Tazawa invited Cory last minute because we were having trouble finding a February speaker. Cory graciously came through for us and WOW does he attract a crowd. We had a suspicion he would draw a lot of interest but he filled the room all the way to the back! The pictures don't do it justice.
If you've followed Cory on YouTube you know he's a big proponent of the Med Trio (General Cure, E.M. Erythromycin, and Ich-X). Something I didn't appreciate was how close the hobby is from losing access to some of these medicines. Erythromycin is an antibiotic used for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections. In fact, it's on the World Health Organizations List of Essential Medicines. In the U.S. it's obtained for use in humans via a prescription from a doctor. You can, however, buy it over-the-counter for use in the aquarium hobby. This has led to some off-label use of the aquarium version in people. I wonder if this also is a result of increasing drug prices in the U.S. According to Cory, it seems the FDA has wised up to the practice and is scrutinizing the distribution of meds to the aquarium hobby. Who know's if or when the hammer will fall but to supplement, Cory touted the benefits of using aquarium salt to deal with sick fish. I knew he was a fan of using salt (I think he said 1 tbsp/3 gallons?) but I think he is preparing (mentally and physically) for the possibility that the FDA completely regulates the supply of medicines in the fish hobby.
After his talk, Cory stuck around to chat with fans while the auction took place. It was busy, loud, and fun. I think he even met with more people at a local diner after that! He's an incredibly busy guy and we thank him for taking the time to visit SFAS and give a great talk to us. He also helped remodel Zenzo's fish room along with Dean Tweedale (another previous SFAS speaker).
Next month we have Barbie Fiorentino presenting on keeping and breeding plecos! See you next month!
Jeff Jackson
SFAS Secretary