- Lymphocystis
Lymphocystis is a common viral
disease offreshwater and saltwaterfish .Aquarist s often come across this virus when their fish are stressed such as when put into a new environment and the virus is able to grow.The fish starts growing small white pin-prick like growths on their
fin s or skin and this is often mistaken for Ich/Ick (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis ) in the early stages. It soon clumps together to form a cauliflower-like growth on the skin, fins, and occasionalgill s.There is no known treatment for this virus, though some aquarists recommend surgery to remove the affected area if it is very serious.
Eventually the growths inhibit the fish's ability to swim, breathe or eat, and secondary
bacteria l infections usually kills the fish.Usually the best cure is to simply give the fish a stress free life, a weekly bacteria treatment and the virus will slowly subside and the fins will repair themselves. This can take many months.
External links
* [http://www.vet.uga.edu/vpp/clerk/Kurkjian/ Lymphocystis in Marine and Freshwater Fishes]
* [http://www.aquarticles.com/articles/management/Lawler_Lymphocystis.html Lymphocystis Disease of Fishes]
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