Causes and Types of Fish Skin Disease
There are several factors that can cause diseases affecting the skin of fish. Some of the most common causes are bacterial or fungal infections, poor water quality, injuries from tank mates, and genetic disorders. Let's take a closer look at some of the different types of fish skin diseases:
Hole-in-the-Head Disease
This disease causes lesions or holes to develop on the head region of the fish. It is typically caused by nutritional deficiencies, especially a lack of vitamin C in the diet. The lesions start off small but may eventually enlarge and even penetrate the skull in severe cases. Fin rot, scales issues and slow wound healing are other signs.
Fin Rot
Degrading or erosion of the fins is known as fin rot. It is usually due to bacterial infections which enter through injuries. The edges of fins appear frayed with white or black patches. Severe cases result in the entire fin melting away. Poor water quality and tank injuries aid the spread of this condition.
Dropsy
A syndrome where the Fish Skin Disease scales protrude and body fluid levels increase, dropsy affects the overall physique. The belly area blows up and scales stand out. Kidney failure is the underlying trigger, making the fish unable to remove excess fluids. Bacterial infections are another common cause.
Colonization of Skin Parasites
External parasites like Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ich) can attach and multiply on the skin surface. Initial signs are whitish spots developing into cysts over time. Heavy infestations lead to loss of slime coat, wounds and secondary infections if left untreated. Other common parasites are anchor worm, fish lice and fungus.
Improving Fish Skin Health through Better Husbandry
The best way to prevent and control fish diseases related to the skin and outer layer is by maintaining optimum water quality. Some key factors to focus on are:
- Temperature control - Stable temperature suited for the fish species to avoid stress.
- Water changes - Partial water changes of 20-30% 1-2 times a week to remove waste metabolites and maintain water chemistry.
- Filtration - Adequate biological and mechanical filtration to convert ammonia to nitrite and nitrate, and remove solid waste.
- Water parameters - Regular testing and adjusting of pH, hardness and ammonia/nitrite/nitrite levels to keep them non-toxic.
- Quarantine - New additions should be quarantined and observed for signs of illness or parasites before introducing to the main tank.
- Feeding - A balanced and nutritious diet avoiding overfeeding to prevent water contamination.
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