Flavobacterium columnare, the causative agent of columnaris disease, is a waterborne bacteria that requires water to survive and propagate. It is not known to survive in a dry or extremely arid environment. The bacteria can survive in water and on moist surfaces, such as fish tanks, filters, and other equipment. The bacteria can survive in the environment for several weeks, depending on the conditions, such as temperature, pH, salinity, and the presence of other microorganisms. Therefore, it is important to disinfect equipment, tanks, and other surfaces to prevent the spread of the disease.