A Quick Guide to Common Koi Fish Diseases

Your Koi is a unique species of aquatic life. Thecommon Koi disease of the eye is called Popeye
Koi fish symbolizes friendship and love. It is aor exophthalmia. It is characterized by a
popular fish that developed long ago in the 1820sprotrusion of the eye from the eye socket. The
in Japan. They are sometimes known as Japanesecause of this likely stems from either tuberculosis
Carp. There are several colors and varietiesor a mycobacterial infection.
available in the Koi. This fish is often found in anThis is encouraged secondary to an eye
outdoor pool for decorative purposes.granuloma, an eye abscess, a choroid infection, a
Koi fish can be subject to many different typesviral infection or trauma. An eye Koi disease can
of koi disease that can be harmful. It is importantbe difficult to resolve as the Koi's eyes have a
to inspect your tank regularly and be alert to thelimited vascularity. The medications used to treat
different signs and symptoms of these differentan eye disease in the Koi are not highly receptive
diseases. Treatment for these koi diseases shouldto this area. Tuberculosis in a Koi fish can be
be started as soon as a problem is recognized.transmitted to humans. Caution when dealing with
Cancerthis problem is highly recommended.
If your Koi has any indication of a circular areaThe Mouth
around an open wound, it could be cancer. ThisAn ulcer or an abscess may be found in some Koi
type of Koi disease is indicated by a white colorfish. Your Koi will have difficulty closing its mouths
with the center being pink. The treatment for thisif he comes down with this affliction. This ulcer or
Koi disease is removal of the cancer tissue.abscess will most likely have come from a
Infectionbacterial infection. The infection travels through
An open wound that is discolored on your fishthe mouth region and inflames the ligaments of
could indicate Koi disease infection. Removal ofthe Koi fish's mouth.
the dead skin surrounding the area isStarting your Koi fish on an antibiotic as soon as
recommended to prevent further infection and topossible is ideal. However, permanent damage to
promote healing of the area. You can help youryour Koi may already have taken place.
Koi by taking a piece of gauze and rubbing theEnjoy your Koi fish and act upon the first sign of
area. This has to be done extremely gently. Aany illness to avoid further koi disease of your
soft toothbrush will work well also.favourite pet. Always consult your local vet or koi
The Eyeexpert if you are in doubt at all. It could be
A Koi with an eye disease is quite noticeable. Adisastrous to leave any koi disease untreated.