Spectrum Thera +A and copper in loach food?

[pierydys]

Hmm, seems like I can't shut up now...

So I was looking through the food section at the LFS today and they had this stuff called "Spectrum Thera + A" by NewLife, a "non-medicated anti-parasitic 1mm sinking pellet". There's a picture of a clown on the label. I've always been worried about new fish bringing parasites with them and know of people that routinely feed newcomers stuff like this as a safeguard. However, I looked at the ingredients and it various metal sulfates, including copper. I seem to remember loaches + copper = badness? Just wondering if this stuff was safe or not?

If not, are there any other medicated foods or similar stuff that you'd recommend?

[worldrallynut]

I have been using this stuff for a few years now in tanks with loaches as well as my african tanks. I haven't had any problems with parasites, but that doesn't mean that the food did anything to control parasites either. The only downside to it is that the food is very expensive.

[NancyD]

I feed NLS thera-A too but I would not expect it to actually kill parasites, more of a vitamin & nutrition boost to help them fight off minor illnesses. If you suspect parasites I would suggest using something else that is effective for the specific infection.

I used to worry about small amounts of copper too but it doesn't seem to hurt the fish but I think the dose would need to be higher to actually do anything to parasites. More like a trace element in plant ferts than a treatment. (just my opinion)

[pierydys]

Thanks, NancyD, that was exactly the answer I was looking for

Cool, I think I'll get it for the vitamin aspect, since it sinks and will more likely get their attention. I already use Rally on newcomers, which supposedly gets at parasites, so I was considering the food more in a supporting role or for general health.

And the copper thing is relieving to hear, since I was starting to get worried about how much more of it might have gotten in with other foods (I double-checked the labels just to be sure) and tank decor. Obviously not enough to stop them from being active little piggies, but paranoia is my close and personal friend.

[LoachOrgy]

i use this as well but i use the medicated ones. been using it for close to 3 yrs. the loaches love it.