Jelly Bean Tetra - Ladigesia roloffi - Federation of British Aquatic ...

Most external parasite
infections cause very
generalised symptoms,
one however, known as
white spot, causes a very
recognisable condition.
As the name suggests, infection of the skin with the White Spot parasite
causes the fish to develop tiny white pimples over its body. The white spots
are around 1mm in diameter, they tend to develop on the fins first before
progressing over the body as the infection proceeds. Scaleless fishes such
as Clown Loach are highly susceptible.
Another very recognisable condition is Finrot, although there are many
possible causes. The fins of a healthy fish should be complete, symmetrical
and of a uniform consistency. During Finrot the skin between the bony fin
rays rots away leaving the fish with decaying tissue where the fins used to
be. If the cause of the Finrot is identified and treated, the fins rapidly grow
back. Finrot is caused either by water pollution, most commonly extremes
of pH or ammonia poisoning. Infection with certain types of bacteria can
also cause the problem. The delicate tissue of the mouth is also prone to a
similar necrosis.
Bacterial infection can also cause large open sores on the skin of the fish
called ulcers. These are very damaging and must be treated early.
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