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Fish disease is a complex subject
It is often believed that fish are less complex than other animals,
and therefore disease diagnosis is simpler. Unfortunately, this is one
of the big fish keeping myths! The simple fact is that it is impossible
to make a full and accurate diagnosis without carrying out a basic
examination of both the fish and the water they live in.
A basic examination involves testing core water quality parameters,
an assessment of physical condition including a microscopic examination
of samples of mucus and gill, as well checking the system for
cleanliness, filtration and stocking levels. In some cases, bacterial
sampling and culture, virus screening and other advanced diagnostic
techniques may be required.
Usually guess
Realistically, few fish keepers have the skill or equipment to carry
out a proper examination. The usual approach is to make an educated
guess, based purely on the clinical signs. However, the drawback with
this approach is that most 'symptoms' such as lethargy, not eating,
rubbing, flashing, redness, heavy respiration and lesions, can have
several possible causes. Indeed, in many cases, fish will be suffering
from more than one disease. So, without an examination even the most
experienced fish keeper can only make a guess as to what the problem is!
In most cases the guess will either be totally wrong or incomplete.
Best practices
Ideally, when disease is suspected a proper examination should be
carried out. After all, we wouldn't simply guess what was wrong with the
family cat or dog! The simple fact is that there is a far, far higher
survival rate if fish disease is methodically diagnosed and treated.
Other considerations are the savings made on inappropriate and
unnecessary treatments as well as fish replacement costs.
NEXT: Steps to take when you have disease
problems >>>
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