Costia – Also known as Ichthyobodo Nector
What is Costia?
Costia is a parasite which reproduces asexually through binary fission, this means that this parasite multiplies itself through division. This is the case with other parasites such as Chilondonella.
Costia appears to be pear shaped when examined under the microscope. Costia is a flagellate, this is a type of protozoan with, in this case three or four flagella. The flagella are described as whip like hairs that enable the Costia as a whole to move whilst seeking a host.
Ichthyobodo nectar will affect both the skin of your fish as well as the gills. Costia digs into the cells and buries itself into the cells on your fishes’ skin, and using its feeding tube it injects toxins to break down the cells which enables the parasite to digest them.
This parasite in its most aggressive stage when your fish’s health is compromised can cause secondary ailments. One of the additional ailments is open sores. This can create an opening for opportunistic bacteria to take hold and cause a multitude of problems. When the parasite affects the gills, it leads to a deterioration of oxygen intake. This can lead to oxygen deprivation and unless addressed promptly death from this one symptom alone.
This parasite can thrive in cold water however the multiplication of Costia is significantly increased in warmer environments.
Identifying and diagnosing Costia!
The only way to positively diagnose your fish with Costia would be through a mucous scrape. This would then be analysed under the microscope for formal identification. However, there are symptoms that you can look for and observe so that you can reach out for help:
Although these symptoms can indicate a vast number of illnesses within the fish seeking expert help as soon as possible will bear the best possible outcome for your fish and their health.
Causes
The parasite Costia lies dormant within the pond. Your mature adult koi are less likely to be affected, however they can function as a carrier for this particular parasite and enable spreading. Whereas the younger koi fish are more affected especially when the immune system is suppressed. This parasite can kill your younger, less developed livestock.
A few of the triggers for an outbreak are:
If you are concerned about an outbreak, do not hesitate, call the pond medic today.
How contagious is Costia?
Extremely
Direct contact transfers this parasite. This can be from an infected fish touching another fish or from a net that has been in contact with an infestation of Costia touching another fish or multiple other fish.
How to treat Costia.
Always in the first instance of suspecting that your fish is unwell seek professional help to attain an accurate diagnosis of what ailment your fish is suffering from.
Treatment will follow a strict regimented plan so please follow your treatment plan efficiently to ascertain the best possible outcome.
Attain and maintain optimum water quality conditions!
Ensure that all your fish are treated to help stop and reduce multiplying flagellates.
Prevention
In order to prevent an outbreak, there are a few steps that can be put in place to ensure that your fish and their immune system are not compromised.
