Rotting nose disease
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Rotting nose Disease is a fish disease that affects most cichlids. Astronotus is a genus of fish from the family Cichlidae. The genus is one of three genera which make up the phylum Chordata.
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[edit] Susceptible species
One species, Astronotus ocellatus, is popular in the aquarium trade where it goes under the trade name of "Oscar". This species seems to develop Rotting nose disease at an alarming frequency compared to other species in the genus.
[edit] Symptoms
The symptoms are well described by the name. First, the fish will develop small, grey, pin-hole abrasions around the nose and head that begin to eat at the flesh. These lesions will grow and if not treated, will eventually kill the fish.
Scientists have speculated that Ocimita, a protozoa, causes this disease. However, individual studies have shown that improvement in nutrition can effectively prevent the occurrence of symptoms. Malnutrition seems to be the leading cause and the Ocimita, an opportunistic secondary infection.
[edit] Preventative measures
Some preventative measures are outlined below.
- Clean tank regularly and ensure that it is well filtered.
- Add vitamins to frozen foods.
- Add the addition of flake foods, as they are enriched with vitamins.
- Add greens, either frozen or in leaf form, to the diet.
- Remove activated carbon filtration.
- Feed your fish small pieces of chopped garlic.
[edit] Professional treatment
It is important to follow the above steps as a preventative measure. If signs of the disease occur, consult a specialist. With treatment, Astronotus or Oscar will regain energy within the first 4 days of the treatment and the damaged tissue will gradually repair.
[edit] References
- "Astronotus". FishBase. Ed. Ranier Froese and Daniel Pauly. May 2006 version. N.p.: FishBase, 2006.
