TUBERCULOSIS
What is it?
One of the nastier diseases, it will infect any fish species and will kill at its own will. Sometimes the fish will die very quickly, exhibiting many symptoms and experiencing a speedy death. Other times the fish will be picked off one by one, with little or no symptoms and with no indication of when or who it will strike next!

TB is caused by a bacteria known as Mycobacterium. This bacteria is often present in aquariums, however usually only becomes a problem if fish become ill or stressed. Common stresses include overcrowding, poor water quality, malnutrition or sudden temperature changes. It seems the most common stress linked to this disease is overcrowding.

TB affects the internal organs, and may spread rapidly depending on the health of the fish.

One thing to note is that particular strains of the disease may cause adverse health effects in humans, so practice caution if TB is suspected. Where gloved with putting hands in the aquarium, and do not let water come in contact with any open cuts on your skin. Use an antibacterial soap afterwards.

Symptoms:
These may not be obvious, but if symptoms do occur they will include:

• Emaciation. That is sunken stomach and thin otherwise.
• Sometimes sores or ulcers will appear.
• Loss of appetite.
• Spinal curvature.
• Erratic Swimming.
• Some symptoms similar to Pop-Eye.
• Scale Loss
• Pale colouration

Cure:
Firstly, make sure the water is of a high quality, check pH and ammonia levels. Consult our pH page and ammonia page if you are unsure of what these parameters are. Correct these first.

It is contagious, but not very. For this reason separate infected fish immediately, and put them is a hospital tank. Treat the unaffected fish with a mild antibiotic to ensure they are not infected.

The fish that clearly are infected with TB may not have much of a chance, however it is worth trying! They may not have TB at all, and may just have an infection with similar symptoms. Treat with a broad spectrum antibiotic, ALWAYS maintaining the best water conditions. Change 1/4 of the water every 2 to 3 days. Use a small amount of aquarium salt to help with stress. There is no known cure, however attempts have been made on fish exhibiting these symptoms to treat, and some have been successful.



Remember, water quality is always extremely important- so always check that first as it is often the cause of disease in aquarium fish. When treating sick fish, try to put the least amount of stress on them as possible, as stress will hinder the heeling process. Another thing is to remember is that generally, a healthy fish is a happy fish.

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