Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Hemorrhagic Septicemia in Goldfish

April 26, 2011 | Fish Health | Leave a Comment |

Recognizing septicemia in goldfish is difficult because more often than not, little or no symptoms occur to indicate infection. It is one of the fish diseases that causes harm from within.

What is Hemorrhagic Septicemia in Goldfish?

  • Most common indication of septicemia in koi and goldfish are Blood Streaks
  • While it is not a communicable fish disease, the chances of it spreading is high if an infected fish shares the same tank with healthy fishes.
  • The most probable cause for such disease is the buildup of nitrite in the tank due to the remaining excrement of fishes in the water. Overfeeding and overstocking have also been included as reasons.

Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Septicemia

  • It is difficult to recognize septicemia symptoms. There are only few significant signs that can guide the aquarist. To be sure about the diagnosis, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
  • Some of the most widely reported symptoms include skin ulcers, deteriorating fins, bulging eyes, lethargy, staying on the surface or corners of the tank and anemia.
  • The cause of septicemia has been traced to many factors such as:
    • Stressful conditions
    • Poor water quality
    • Improper handling of the fish
    • Malnutrition
  • The remedy for septicemia is treating the infection as quickly as possible. The pet owner should feed the fish with triple-strength antibiotic food and nothing else.
  • The infected fish undergoing treatment must be kept within a warm environment above 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Salt solution added to the treatment tank can help heal the scales back to their natural texture.
  • Water quality should be kept in excellent conditions to prevent further complications.

Speak Your Mind