Enables the lab to select the necessary samples that it requires. Fish must be extremely fresh as fish commence rotting almost as soon as death occurs particularly in summer. Where possible it is better to submit a typically affected live fish for euthanasia and post-mortem if there is a particular pond problem. Pack dead fish in ice but do not freeze. It is then possible to obtain an antibiotic sensitivity.
Swabs can only detect bacteria .
They should be taken from the active edge of a typical lesion. Virus isolation - very specialised and expensive 4. Histopathology - the examination of ultra thin slices of tissue under a microscope. Frequently required to detect organ failure but not cheap. Radiography - useful for broken backs e.g. lightning strike.