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Disease
treatments
an overview of how treatments work,
why they often don't work and why they sometimes kill fish.
Disease
treatment basics
When you have fish health problems,
this guide details the steps to take, and what to do if it isn't
possible to make a definitive diagnosis.
Antibiotics
are an important treatment option
against bacterial diseases if they are used properly.
Injecting
antibiotics
gives the best results against
bacterial infections - especially when dealing with severe
cases.
Antibiotic
baths
and dips are not generally as
effective as antibiotics given by injection. Baths and dips may
however, be useful for surface infections.
Dimilin
Effective treatment against anchor
worm (Lernaea) and possibly fish lice (Argulus)
Medicated
food
is a useful option for treating
bacterial disease, but it does have some disadvantages.
Topical
treatments
can be very effective against
bacterial diseases - especially when used in conjunction with
antibiotics
Chloramine-T
Can be tricky to use - but is
effective against some parasites - it can also assist in gill
problems.
Copper
a treatment for marine parasites.
Malachite
green and formalin
an all-round anti-parasite treatment,
especially good for white spot.
Organophosphates
the "bad boy" of treatments
- but the best treatment for the "difficult" parasites
such as Argulus.
Potassium permanganate
an effective treatment against many
parasites, especially Trichodina. Can be useful for bacterial
problems and disinfecting nets etc.
Quaternary
ammonium compounds: (QACs)
useful for gill disease - as it acts
as a mild disinfectant with detergent action to remove debris.
Salt
The fish keeper's standby for
parasites, gill congestion and osmoregulation problems. It's safe,
and cheap |
