![]() The mature trophont leaves the fish, attaches to the sides and bottom of the aquarium, and secretes a cyst wall to become a reproductive tomont. The host provides the parasite with food and other necessary substances for growth. The parasitic trophont lives completely within the host fish, causing tissue damage and leading to the host’s death. Ich is a ciliate parasite that has three developmental stages, a parasitic trophont, a reproductive tomont, and an infective theront. ![]() Some aquarium fish may be more sensitive to ich infection than other species, but no fish species has complete natural resistance to ich. All the fish in a tank could be easily killed in a short period. ![]() Ich infects almost all freshwater fish and has a high mortality rate. If the infection is restricted to the gills, however, no white spots will be seen. Fish infected with ich typically develop small, blister-like, raised lesions (white spots) on the skin and/or fins. The disease is caused by the ciliate protozoan Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, commonly called ich or ick. White spot disease is a very common problem in freshwater aquarium fish. Most of the parasitic diseases encountered in aquarium fish are protozoan parasites, especially those that cause white spot disease. Crustacean parasites come in many types, such as Argulus (fish louse), Lernaea (anchor worm), and Ergasilus (gill lice). They have no intermediate host, but are host- and site-specific-if they are found in one species, they usually will not spread to other species of fish, even in the same tank.ĭigenetic trematodes (grubs) have a complex lifecycle involving a series of hosts, including snails and birds, nematodes and leeches, meaning they cannot complete their lifecycle in an aquarium because they cannot reproduce. Monogenetic trematodes (flatworms or flukes) commonly invade the gills, skin, and fins of fish. Protozoans are single-celled organisms that typically have a direct lifecycle, requiring no intermediate host to reproduce. Several major groups of parasites can be seen in aquarium fish. Several factors influence the health of aquarium fish, and parasitic disease is a major one. Aquariums are often placed in the waiting rooms or lobbies of restaurants, clinical offices, hospitals, commercial buildings, and hotels, providing enjoyment, satisfaction, and relaxation for people in these areas. ![]() Among them, 11.9 million households have freshwater fish and 0.7 million have saltwater fish.Ĭurrently, huge selections of beautifully colored aquarium fish are available so hobbyists can stock their aquariums to satisfy their taste and add beauty to their homes. In a 2011-2012 national pet owner survey, the American Pet Products Association (APPA) reported that 12.6 million US households own pet fish. Millions of people around the world keep aquariums stocked with colorful ornamental fish, enjoying one of the most popular leisure-time activities. A scientist lists the best methods to reduce the risk of ich and treat outbreaks in the aquarium. Ich is one of the most common fish diseases, but it is fairly preventable and treatable. ![]()
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