Branchiomycosis

Symptoms:

Fish infected with Branchiomycosis can be easily misdiagnosed with a bacterial infection because of the grayish, irregular streaks, but the key symptom that characterizes this infection is mottled gills. Fish may also have a bluish color. The disease infects the gills first and then spreads to other parts of the skin and fins.

Cause:

The fungus Branchiomycosis. This disease takes hold when water conditions deteriorate, principally high ammonia and elevated temperatures. Branchiomycosis is very difficult to treat. Under the microscope, this fungus has a snowflake appearance, in contrast with most other fungi, which have long hyphae.

Treatment:

First place the infected fish in a 3% salt dip for 10 minutes and then remove it to freshwater. Next scrape the grayish fungal growth off and dab the infected areas with Methylene Blue using a cotton swab. Don't be alarmed if the skin comes with it, leaving an open wound. The skin is already infected and the Methylene Blue will help here. You may also apply Neosporin or Polysporin cream to the area, rubbing it in really well. This will help prevent a secondary infection by bacteria. If you are able to find Panalog from your vet, this would be much better.

The fungal growths should dislodge without much effort. If not, the salt dips can be repeated. It is also recommended to feed your fish medicated food (such as romet-B) to help prevent a bacterial secondary infection.


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