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An overview of aquatic health
explains why disease occurs. It
explains the various diagnostic steps to take and outlines the
various treatment methods.
The fish health work-up
an invaluable step by step guide to
diagnosis health problems and their causes.
Clinical
signs of disease
Although it is impossible to make a
diagnosis based purely on behaviour we can use typical behaviour
and physical changes as indicators of possible health problems.
Argulus
The fish louse. A real nasty. In the
confines of a pond or tank these can be real killers and finding
even one louse warrants immediate treatment.
Bacterial infections
including fin rot and ulcers are a
serious threat to health.
Bacterial gill disease
is usually a 'management' problem,
arising from less than ideal conditions.
Chilodonella
a common parasite, often occurring at
low temperatures. It is a threat as it often causes severe damage
before any signs are evident.
Costia
is able to reproduce rapidly under
ideal conditions and cause serious tissue damage,
particularly in the gills.
Dermocystidium
a quite horrifying condition
that leaves koi covered in angry-looking lesions - but then
disappears literally overnight!
Fin rot
With few exceptions, fin rot is
always precipitated by stress and is often one of the first signs
that a health problem exists.
Skin and gill flukes
are common parasites that are often
the precursor to gill damage, bacterial infections and ulcers.
Treatment can sometimes be tricky.
Fungus
Saprolegnia infections can
spread rapidly and even though the damage is often superficial,
prompt treatment is essential to avoid fatalities.
Parasites -
an overview
Fish are potential hosts to a range
of parasites. While small numbers of parasites do little harm in
most cases, in large numbers they can seriously compromise the
health of the fish
Trichodina
a common parasite. At low levels it
doesn't pose a health problem. However, as with most
parasites they have tremendous reproductive potential.
Bacterial body ulcers
are a common problem. An early,
accurate diagnosis and treatment is vital if losses and expensive
treatment costs are to be avoided.
White spot
a nasty parasite capable of causing
serious tissue damage. Up to 100% fatalities can occur without
prompt treatment. |
