Are Your Fish Healthy?

Important Water Parameters for Fish Health

• Soft water is generally 300mg/L CaCO3 and levels >100mg/L CaCO3 are better for buffering to minimize pH swings.
• Total alkalinity is the total concentration of carbonates and bicarbonates in the water and is directly related to hardness and is expressed in mg/L CaCO3.
• Total alkalinity is an indicator of the ability of the water to buffer against pH change and in marine tanks is referred to as the ‘marine reserve’.
• It is preferable to ensure the total alkalinity is >100mg/L CaCO3, and marine tanks require at least 200mg/L alkalinity.
• Oxygenation may be measured using chemical test kits or an electronic meter with a polarographic probe.
• Oxygenation is measured in ppm or mg/L, and levels should be at least 6mg/L for healthy fish.
• Anoxia occurs at levels <2mg/L, and it affects all ages of fish, although yearlings are most susceptible.
• Columnaris is a bacterial infection caused by Flavobacterium columnare and is common in warm water.
• It affects fish with weakened immune systems, and the symptoms include lethargy, loss of appetite, and the development of white or grey patches on the skin.
• Spring Viraemia of Carp (SVC) is caused by a rhabdovirus and affects cyprinid fish, particularly carp.
• It is a listed disease under ‘The Aquatic Animal Health (England and Wales/Scotland) Regulations 2009’ which controls movement on and off infected premises.
• Lymphocystis is caused by Iridoviruses and affects fresh water and marine fish, mainly from tropical climes.
• It produces a series of nodules due to enlargement of fibroblasts within the dermis causing a series of white-grey coalescing irregular masses, often on the fins, but can occur anywhere on the body.

Test your knowledge on the important water parameters for fish health with this quiz! From alkalinity to oxygenation, learn about the different factors that affect the well-being of fish in their aquatic environment. This quiz also covers common infections and diseases that can afflict fish and the symptoms to look out for. Sharpen your understanding of fish health and become a more responsible fish owner with this informative quiz.