Free eBook of The Misunderstood Angel ends today 4/10/26! Hop on board this inspirational series!

Grab your copy of this entertaining angel series with the unforgettable, endearing, and powerful character who will capture your attention and your heart in this first book of four missions. If you are looking for an uplifting book, this is the one for you!

Branyrd will surprise and delight you and fill you with hope and love after you read her story. She never gives up and is tough but kind and tenacious to fulfill her missions to help save others. If you don’t believe in angels, Branyrd may change your mind or at least make you wonder and wish that she was your guardian angel to watch over you.

Book 1 received a 5-Star Review from Readers’ Favorite Book Awards!

Book cover for 'The Misunderstood Angel' by J.E. Spina, featuring a cloudy sky background and dark trees at the bottom, with pink flowers framing the image.
Silver medal featuring five stars and the text 'Readers' Favorite' and 'Five Stars' with an open book and heart logo.
Readers’ Favorite Book Award 5-Stars

Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers’ Favorite

In The Misunderstood Angel by J.E. Spina, Branyrd, an Angel aspiring to climb the ranks, faces a series of challenges as she progresses through her celestial training. Initially isolated and delayed in her efforts to meet the LORD for guidance, Branyrd is eventually directed to train with Angels Fourth Class, and her effective supervision and discipline of them lead to her promotion through the angelic levels. Elevated to Angel First Class, Branyrd is assigned a mission on Earth with Guardian Angel Benedicto, who helps her adapt to human life and customs. As she integrates, Branyrd interacts with Maggie and her daughter Annie, offering support and planning a birthday party for Annie. Despite facing obstacles and the potential threat from Maggie’s abusive husband Nate, Branyrd is determined to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

“I heard your plea for help. Are you ready to make amends?” In J.E. Spina’s The Misunderstood Angel, readers are transported to a well-crafted depiction of Heaven, where the hierarchy of angelic classes and earning wings are creatively outlined. The protagonist, Branyrd, has deep-seated feelings of inadequacy and a fervent desire for promotion, reflecting the broader theme of overcoming internal flaws to achieve a higher status. Spina skillfully links the celestial with relatable human experiences, as seen in Branyrd’s attempts to integrate with things like makeup and party planning, bridging the divine and the mundane. Meanwhile, the harrowing events surrounding Nate provide a suspenseful journey toward what may or may not be redemption, showing us the risks of following a dark path but also the mercy of divine intervention—up to a point. Overall, this is an engrossing story and a solid first book in the new Branyrd the Angel series.

Banner featuring the book covers from the 'Branyrd the Angel Series' by award-winning author Janice (J.E.) Spina, including titles such as 'The Misunderstood Angel', 'Mission of Mercy', 'Mission of Love', and 'Mission of Hope'.

Amazon.com: The Misunderstood Angel: Branyrd the Angel Series Book 1 eBook : Spina, J.E.: Kindle Store

I hope you will enjoy this book and want to read the other three books to complete the series. I know that Branyrd will cheer you if you are sad and lift your spirits. Once you enter her world you will be captivated and feel as if she is still with you even after you finish the book. That is how I felt after I finished writing the series earlier. She is always with me. If she requests another mission, I just may have to oblige, because who would dare argue with an angel?

Thank you so much for stopping by to read this post and for your continued support. Please come back again soon because something is always brewing at JemsBooks!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in Branyrd the Angel Series, Free eBook, The Misunderstood Angel (Branyrd the Angel Series Book 1), Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

New fish tank up and running!

My husband is in the process of breaking down the 95-gallon saltwater tank and selling it if possible. Anyone interested?

He already set up the small tank with the remaining fish who survived – Clown fish, Gamma, Yellow Wrasse, and Souter Blenny. The two that did not make it were the bicolor Angel and Puffer. It’s strange that the largest fish succumbed to the Ick while the smaller fish escaped this.

I snapped a few photos of the new tank before the fish were added and then after. They are looking good and have acclimated already to their new home. They did hide behind the rocks for the first day but now they are out and about and appearing pleased with their surroundings.

The first pic is without the fish while the others are with fish. Notice the purple fish (Gamma) peeking out of the rock, the Yellow Wrasse swimming around happily, and the Clown fish inside the rock – burgundy with white stripes inside the rock. He is shy and always hides even when he was in the large tank.

John wants to purchase another anemone to make Clown happy again. He loved the previous anemone we put in the large tank. He quickly hosted it – meaning he fed it and swam in, around and inside its tentacles. The anemone loved all the attention too since it got fed all the good food that it would have missed if it wasn’t for the Clown fish.

When we introduce a new anemone to Clown fish, I will share his hosting event once again. It is really something to witness. Clown was so enthralled with it and never left its side. He was crushed when it died and was eaten by the other fish. He guarded it for as long as he could.

Here are photos of Clown fish in the past with his anemone.

We had Clowns in the past that did not host with an anemone so when this one did, we were quite excited to see him in action.

I have wanted John to close down the large tank since it is so much work for him. After we lost Puffer, he knew it was time to move the smaller fish into a much smaller aquarium. The much smaller tank 10 gallon will be much easier for him to take care of and handle the water changes. It if was left up to me, the water would not be changed. I am not good at this stuff, besides I am much too busy with my books and blogging.

Thank you for stopping by to read this post and for your continued support. I will keep you informed about how the fish are doing. Fingers crossed, they will all continue to do well. Come back again soon for something is always brewing at JemsBooks!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in clown fish, fish tanks, Saltwater tank, Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Smorgasbord Book Promotions 2026 – Share an Excerpt – Boost one of your books – #Fantasy #Myths – The Legend of the Taken Ones: Gateskin Chronicles …

In this series for 2026, you are invited to share an excerpt of 400 to 500 words from any book you have written you would like to give a boost to. I …

Smorgasbord Book Promotions 2026 – Share an Excerpt – Boost one of your books – #Fantasy #Myths – The Legend of the Taken Ones: Gateskin Chronicles …

I shared the first book in my epic series, The Legend of the Taken Ones: Gateskin Chronicles Book 1!

Please visit Sally’s blog to learn more about my book and check out all the informative posts that this lovely and talented lady writes.

Thank you so much, Sally, for your kind support! ❤️

Posted in epic fantasy, fantasy, Gateskin Chronicles, Gateskin Chronicles Book 1 | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Free eBook of The Misunderstood Angel begins 4/6/26 – 4/10/26! Hop on board this inspirational series!

Grab your copy of this entertaining angel series with the unforgettable, endearing, and powerful character who will capture your attention and your heart in this first book of four missions. If you are looking for an uplifting book, this is the one for you!

Branyrd will surprise and delight you and fill you with hope and love after you read her story. She never gives up and is tough but kind and tenacious to fulfill her missions to help save others. If you don’t believe in angels, Branyrd may change your mind or at least make you wonder and wish that she was your guardian angel to watch over you.

Book 1 received a 5-Star Review from Readers’ Favorite Book Awards!

Silver medal featuring five stars and the text 'Readers' Favorite' and 'Five Stars' with an open book and heart logo.
Readers’ Favorite Book Award 5-Stars

Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers’ Favorite

In The Misunderstood Angel by J.E. Spina, Branyrd, an Angel aspiring to climb the ranks, faces a series of challenges as she progresses through her celestial training. Initially isolated and delayed in her efforts to meet the LORD for guidance, Branyrd is eventually directed to train with Angels Fourth Class, and her effective supervision and discipline of them lead to her promotion through the angelic levels. Elevated to Angel First Class, Branyrd is assigned a mission on Earth with Guardian Angel Benedicto, who helps her adapt to human life and customs. As she integrates, Branyrd interacts with Maggie and her daughter Annie, offering support and planning a birthday party for Annie. Despite facing obstacles and the potential threat from Maggie’s abusive husband Nate, Branyrd is determined to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

“I heard your plea for help. Are you ready to make amends?” In J.E. Spina’s The Misunderstood Angel, readers are transported to a well-crafted depiction of Heaven, where the hierarchy of angelic classes and earning wings are creatively outlined. The protagonist, Branyrd, has deep-seated feelings of inadequacy and a fervent desire for promotion, reflecting the broader theme of overcoming internal flaws to achieve a higher status. Spina skillfully links the celestial with relatable human experiences, as seen in Branyrd’s attempts to integrate with things like makeup and party planning, bridging the divine and the mundane. Meanwhile, the harrowing events surrounding Nate provide a suspenseful journey toward what may or may not be redemption, showing us the risks of following a dark path but also the mercy of divine intervention—up to a point. Overall, this is an engrossing story and a solid first book in the new Branyrd the Angel series.

Banner featuring the book covers from the 'Branyrd the Angel Series' by award-winning author Janice (J.E.) Spina, including titles such as 'The Misunderstood Angel', 'Mission of Mercy', 'Mission of Love', and 'Mission of Hope'.

Amazon.com: The Misunderstood Angel: Branyrd the Angel Series Book 1 eBook : Spina, J.E.: Kindle Store

I hope you will enjoy this book and want to read the other three books to complete the series. I know that Branyrd will cheer you if you are sad and lift your spirits. Once you enter her world you will be captivated and feel as if she is still with you even after you finish the book. That is how I felt after I finished writing the series earlier. She is always with me. If she requests another mission, I just may have to oblige, because who would dare argue with an angel?

Thank you so much for stopping by to read this post and for your continued support. Please come back again soon because something is always brewing at JemsBooks!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in Branyrd the Angel Series, Free eBook, The Misunderstood Angel (Branyrd the Angel Series Book 1), Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

New Promos by BMGN! Discover the Latest Promos for The Powers of King Gateskin: Gateskin Chronicles Book 5!

I am excited to share some new promos of my books by Book Marketing Global Network. They have updated all my banners and added my newest book, The Powers of King Gateskin: Gateskin Chronicles Book 5! Series has won six medals and 5-star reviews.

LET THE ADVENTURES BEGIN AND CONTINUE THROUGHOUT THE SERIES!

Available in three formats: eBook, paperback and audiobook on Amazon, soon to Barnes & Noble as a paperback.

Admin: Theodocia
Website: https://bookmarketingglobalnetwork.com/

Graphic promoting author Janice Spina and Jems Books, featuring colorful book illustrations and text about reading for children, teens, and adults.

Author Janice (J. E.) Spina – BOOK MARKETING GLOBAL NETWORK

Promotional banner for the book 'The Legend of the Taken Ones' by Janice Spina, featuring the book cover, author information, and details about the series.
Banner promoting the book 'The Unknown Territory' by Janice Spina, featuring nature imagery and accolades, including awards. The book is part of the 'Gateskin Chronicles' series, aimed at readers aged 13 and up, available in print and audiobook formats.
Book cover for 'Search for the Medallion' by Janice Spina, featuring a blue chest on a scenic background, promoting it as part of the Gateskin Chronicles series.
Book cover for 'Return of the Dragons', part of the Gateskin Chronicles series by Janice Spina, featuring a scenic ocean view and promotional information about the book and author.
Promotional banner for 'The Powers of King Gateskin', Book 5 in the Gateskin Chronicles series by award-winning author Janice Spina. Features a fantasy theme with a blue treasure chest and stormy background. Includes information about the target age group, availability in print, eBooks, and audiobooks.
Book banner featuring 'The Powers of King Gateskin', part of the Gateskin Chronicles series by author Janice Spina, displaying other books in the series and promotional information about reading and availability.
A portrait of a smiling woman with long gray hair, wearing a sweater, set against a backdrop with a decorated Christmas tree. The image is framed with the Book Marketing Global Network logo on either side.

Author Janice (J. E.) Spina – BOOK MARKETING GLOBAL NETWORK

Admin: Theodocia
Website: https://bookmarketingglobalnetwork.com/

If you want to check out this site, go to the link above for the website and also check out the link to my page there to see how it is laid out.

Theodocia does an exceptional job, and she works tirelessly to get it all done in a timely fashion. I have been with BMGN since 2014. With all my books, she has to work extra hard to complete the task of updating all my books with awards, covers, etc. Thank you, Theodocia!!

Thank you for stopping by to read this post and for your continued support. Please come back again soon where something is always brewing at JemsBooks.

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in Gateskin Chronicles, Promos by BMGN Theodocia McLean, The Powers of King Gateskin: Gateskin Chronicles Book 5, Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

A Sad Day for Puffer!

I recently posted about our Puffer fish coming down with Ick. Well, it is a sad day for us. We lost Puffer. He went to the big Fish Heaven to join all the other fish that we have lost in the past. It was so difficult to watch him suffer but John did all he could to help him recover with medicine for Ick and water changes. Nothing worked. He was destined to leave us after being afflicted.

The other fish are still hanging in there. John has not begun to break down the large tank 95 gallon and set up a much smaller one in the kitchen for the four fish that are left. They are much smaller than Puffer and can survive in a smaller tank. We plan to sell off the large tank along with the rocks and other stuff that go with it in case anyone is interested in it.

Here is the last photo I took of Puffer in the tank.

A pufferfish resting on the sandy bottom of an aquarium, with a dark body featuring white spots.

He never lost his colors even as he suffered. Most fish when they are dying lose their colors and turn white. He was so large that we couldn’t flush him and had to put him in a baggie and wrap him up well in the trash. He will begin to stink unfortunately but our trash will go out in a few days. Sigh!

It’s really tough to see them out of the tank and still. My husband takes care of that part of the situation. I helped him by keeping the baggie opened so he could fit Puffer inside. Ugh! He was beginning to smell already. I will miss seeing him eating with such gusto and actively swimming around the tank. I don’t think the other fish will miss him as much because he ate all the food that was dropped into the tank.

Well, I will sign off and let you know how the other fish are doing in their smaller tank. I will snap some pics after John finishes with the process. There is still a lot to do for him with adding the salt and making sure that the water is perfect for them.

Thank you for stopping by to read this post and for your continued support. Please come back again soon where there is always something brewing at JemsBooks!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in fish, fish tanks, Saltwater tank, Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , | 7 Comments

The Powers of King Gateskin: Gateskin Chronicles Book 5 is now in paperback format!

My newest book in the Gateskin Chronicles series is now in paperback format! Check out this newest book as THE ADVENTURES CONTINUE in this magical and epic fantasy series. The cover was created by my husband, John. The photo was one that I snapped of a sunset creating the effect of a fire. We thought it was perfect for this cover. I hope you like it as much as we do.

King Gateskin’s powers are tested in this epic fantasy series. There are some surprises with the dragons. Botular is trouble as usual, and Dragonaria discovers a secret that King Gateskin did not want revealed yet.

There is magic, mayhem, and danger in each chapter to keep readers engrossed. The King’s children use their powers not always in a smart way and put themselves at risk.

The chest is a problem with the Wizards who are concerned that there is more to the beams of light than first discovered. Will the evil wizard return to claim the chest that holds the Medallion and possibly something else?

If you haven’t read any of this series yet, please begin with book 1 to get into the action, adventure, and magical fantasy. This is a multi-award-winning series with three Gold Medals from @Mom’s Choice Awards, one Maincrest Media Award, and one Book Excellence Award.

Promotional banner for the 'Gateskin Chronicles' series by Janice Spina, featuring covers of four books: 'The Legend of the Taken Ones,' 'The Unknown Territory,' 'Search for the Medallion,' and 'Return of the Dragons.' Includes a photo of the author, endorsements, and details on availability.

LET THE ADVENTURES BEGIN AND CONTINUE THROUGHOUT THE REST OF THE SERIES! Once you begin, you will be hooked! Enjoy the magic, mayhem, mystery, adventures, dragons, wizards, fairies, sprites, and all the unusual happenings and creatures that lurk along the borders of this province, Keep a lookout for them. They may be closer than you think!

Thank you so much for stopping by to read this post and for your continued support. Please come back again soon because there is always something brewing at JemsBooks!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in Gateskin Chronicles, New Book from Jemsbooks is now here!, The Powers of King Gateskin: Gateskin Chronicles Book 5, Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Meet Branyrd: The Misunderstood Angel eBook Giveaway

I joined a great group of authors – Authors Supporters Authors – moderated by a lovely person – Eleanor Wagner. Each week we have a Meet the Author with a different author introducing themselves and their work. It is a time to gift books and share a little about ourselves.

During my week – April 6 – April 10, 2026, I will offer a free eBook of The Misunderstood Angel: Branyrd the Angel Series Book 1. It is also offered to any of my readers who see this. Grab your copy for this week only.

FIVE STAR REVIEW – READERS’ FAVORITE BOOK AWARDS!
 
This is not a children’s book. Branyrd is a different kind of angel. She has a difficult time being understood because of her habit of getting into all kinds of trouble and for her unacceptable language. Angels are not supposed to swear.

This angel must earn levels to be accepted by the LORD. She is presently at Angel Fourth Class and must ascend to Angel First Class in order to be given a mission to travel to Earth to help a human in trouble.

Once she reaches Angel First Class, she is given a mission and travels to Earth to help a battered woman and her child. Since she is so new to the ways on Earth, Branyrd is accompanied by her Guardian Angel Benedicto, Angel First Class on High, who guides and advises her.

Branyrd doesn’t know what she will do or how she will complete this mission. She must show her strengths and succeed, or she may be demoted. What she finds on Earth is not what she expected. It certainly is nothing like Heaven. There are dangerous people but also those who she will miss dearly when she must leave.

Promotional image for Eleanor Wagner's book 'Creepin' It Real', featuring a photograph of the author Janice Spina, with details about an author interaction event during the week of April 6th, and a call to visit a Facebook page for authors.

Grab your copy of The Misunderstood Angel: Branyrd the Angel Series Book 1 and get into the world of Branyrd, a memorable and amazing angel with a twist. Once you read book 1 you will be hooked and want to read the whole series to find out what Branyrd will do next. She will inspire you and give you hope, for anything is possible if you just believe.

Thank you for stopping by to read this post and for your continued support. Please come back again soon where there is always something brewing at JemsBooks!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in Branyrd the Angel Series, The Misunderstood Angel (Branyrd the Angel Series Book 1), Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Blessings of Easter to all!

Wishing everyone a blessed Easter. This is a time when we gather together with family to celebrate that Jesus has risen! We are thankful for the time we have together. Our extended families only get together three times a year – Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Each time is precious.

How do you celebrate this holiday?

We will have plenty of food at my sister’s house, an Easter egg hunt, and I have crocheted some little bunny bags below for the kids. I love to see their eyes when I hand them a bag of goodies and a little money tucked inside. I will also gift some of my books to those who have not received the latest ones.

A collection of hand-crocheted baby booties in light blue, mint green, and pale yellow, arranged neatly on a patterned bedspread.

I pray that your Easter is special, memorable, and filled with blessings. God bless you!

Books make perfect gifts for any holiday. That is what I do for all my family.

Thank you so much for stopping by to read this post and for your continued support. Please come back again soon because there is always something brewing at JemsBooks.

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in Happy Easter, Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , | 10 Comments

A shocking sight!

We had a shock recently with our Puffer fish. He evidently got sick with Ick which is a thing that fish can get. We don’t know how he got it since all the rest of the fish in the tank are healthy.

This is what I read on Google about Fish Ick:

Fish ick (or Ich), caused by the parasite Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, is a highly contagious, deadly disease characterized by tiny white spots resembling sand on fish skin and gills. It causes severe stress, leading to “flashing” (rubbing on objects) and labored breathing. Treatment involves raising water temperature and using medications like Fritz Aquatics or aquarium salt.

Key Facts About Fish Ick:

  • Symptoms: White, sand-like spots on the body, fins, and gills; increased flashing; lethargy; and, in late stages, labored breathing.
  • Cause: The protozoan parasite Ichthyophthirius multifiliis burrows into the fish’s skin, causing a white, pustule-like reaction.
  • Lifespan: The life cycle depends on temperature, taking roughly 3-7 days to complete in tropical temperatures, spreading rapidly throughout a tank.
  • Treatment: The parasite is only vulnerable in its free-swimming stage. Common treatments include:
    • Increasing temperature: Raising temperatures (e.g., to 82 F to 86 F or 28 C)
    • This speeds up the life cycle, making them more vulnerable to medication.
    • Medications: Using proprietary medicines containing ingredients like malachite green or copper.
    • Salt: Using aquarium salt can help inhibit the parasite and ease fish breathing.
  • Prevention: The best approach is to quarantine new fish for 2-3 weeks, maintain high water quality, and avoid overcrowding to reduce stress.

Without treatment, ick can be fatal to all fish in a tank within a week. 

That is not all! We woke up to find him blown up like a balloon! That is what Puffer fish do when they are stressed! I know the feeling I blow up all the time even when I am not stressed. It is quite a sight to see. Here are some photos of him in that stage and as he tried to calm himself down to return to normal size. John put in some medicine to stop the Ick which appeared to help but now he is not looking happy and floating at the bottom of the tank. His color is excellent but he is still not feeling well. He may need another dose of the medicine.

He was trying to hide I think from me as his body returned to normal.Here are some photos below of him in his normal size.

We are anxiously watching him and praying that he makes it and that the rest of the fish will not succumb to Ick too. Yikes! We have dealt with a die out before for other reasons but never for Ick. I feel like a parent who worries about her children. It is a sad thing to say goodbye to another fish but we will not give up hope that Puffer will pull through. He is strong and quite large and appears to be fighting for his life.

I will keep you informed about how Puffer is doing. Keep him in your prayers. Thank you.

Thank you for stopping by to read this post and for your continued support. Please come back again soon because there is always something brewing at JemsBooks!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in fish, tropical fish, Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , , , | 12 Comments