ARE YOUR FISH BEING HIJACKED?

Parasites are everywhere and can be lurking in your aquarium without causing any significant problems. Although a parasite harms a host, it does not usually kill the host or it would eventually run out of a place to live. Like dogs, cats and other animals, fish may also be affected by parasites. Stressed or wounded fish are more susceptible to fish parasites, allowing them a chance to multiply and start attacking the healthier fish also in your tank or pond.

The best prevention against fish parasites is to provide a healthy, stress-free environment for your fish. Healthy fish are rarely affected by parasites. Proper maintenance, water conditions, nutrition and non-aggressive tank-mates are easy ways to reduce the threat of unwanted “hijackers”. Use a water conditioner that also provides slime coat protection. A slime coat acts as a shield against disease causing organisms in the fish’s external environment. The fish’s slime coat is often disturbed during transport & times of stress.

Signs of External Fish Parasites

  • Itching. (Yes, Fish can itch, too!)  Watch for rubbing against décor, sides & bottom of the tank or pond.
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Sores, patches, spots, or injuries on the body
  • Torn or jagged fins
  • Lack of appetite
  • Lethargic; unusual swimming behavior
  • Hiding or being bullied by tank-mates

Treatment

Identifying and treating infestations early is much easier and effective than curing severe fish parasite problems. Once parasites attack and penetrate the skin or gills, the fish is more susceptible to illnesses from bacteria, fungi and secondary infections.

Dipping your freshwater fish into a saltwater solution (and saltwater fish into freshwater) for three 5 minute treatments will dislodge many external fish parasites. Dipping is stressful for the fish, so observe and remove sooner if needed. Some fish parasites require special medications. Animart’s Wet & Wild specialists can help you identify the specific fish parasite and determine the right medications to use for your type of fish. Some treatments may also kill off the beneficial bacteria in your tank. Monitor your water quality and filtration to avoid unwanted ammonia and nitrite spikes. We offer free water testing at Animart Pet Stores as well.

Questions?

Think your fish might have parasites? Contact Animart’s Wet & Wild specialists at  920.885.2814 for more information about keeping your fish healthy.