Test the water to see if the condition could be caused by low oxygen, high carbon dioxide, ammonia or nitrite toxicity, or pesticide pollution. If these problems can be eliminated, watch the fish closely. Catch some fish that seem sick. Figure 14 shows several signs of disease. If you see any of these signs, get a diagnosis immediately.
Early diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.
The Southern Cooperative Fish Diseases Project diagnoses fish diseases free of charge during working hours Monday through Friday. A good diagnosis depends on proper sample collection and transportation. Samples must be transported quickly. If possible bring your fish to the disease lab in person. Bus transportation is most reliable when shipping to Auburn.