What is fin and tail rot?

Fin and tail rot is a fungal infection caused by bacteria, it usually occurs as a secondary illness, triggered by a weakened immune system. This is usually because of open wounds or injuries, or damaged scales and skin.

These injuries and sores can be caused by:

• Being handled improperly, too rough, or poorly handled.
• A parasitic infection.
• Ulceration of the skin, from an internal bacterial infection.
• Aggressive fish from fighting or breeding.

Fin and tail rot is caused by the bacteria “Pseudomonas fluorescens.”

Fin and tail rot can be fatal. So, seeking out treatment is vital as the livelihood of your fish is at risk. As with many bacterial infections pseudomonas flueroescens favours warmer weather and warmer conditions, making the infection more potent and dangerous to your fish.

Do not delay call the pond medic today.

Identifying and diagnosing!

The visibility of fungal growths helps to aid the diagnosis of fin and tail rot, however spotting any symptoms early can help to preserve the life of your fish.

Symptoms may include:

• Clamped fins
• Weight loss
• The fins and tail may appear to be split.
• The fins and tail can start to disintegrate, and rot away. How ever they can grow back.
• The fins and tail can have a white fluffy appearance.
• Scale loss
• Fins which appear to be tattered and rugged looking, with torn and fluffy edges. They also turn white.
• The bases of the fins may look irritated, red, and angry.
• Increase in the production of mucous.
• Loss of appetite.
• Lacking energy to eat or swim.

If you suspect that fin and tail rot may be affecting your fish, do not delay call the pond medic today. Tel:07737 674417

Causes

As previously mentioned, fin and tail rot is usually a secondary illness but there are some factors that can and will exacerbate the illness and hinder the recovery. Potentially causing fin and tail rot.

• Poor water quality
• Overstocked pond
• Stress
• Lack of nutrients available.
• Compromised immune system.
• Open sores or ulcers left untreated.
• Warm water and weather
• Aggressive fish
• Reproduction rituals
• Parasites
• Being handled poorly.

With these causes it is vital that as soon as fin and tail rot is suspected as it can affect your fish and it can kill them.

How contagious is fin and tail rot?

Extremely contagious

As these types of rot are incredibly dangerous and contagious it is advised to separate the fish who have confirmed case of fin or tail rot, into a separate tank to help aid the recuperation. All your pond will require treatment to ensure that no further cases of fin or tail rot occur and all fish in your pond are healthy.

Treatment

As fin and tail rot can kill it is imperative to get professional help at the earliest convenience. The pond medic will create a treatment plan that will help to protect and heal all your fish.

• Antibiotics may be required to treat underlying bacterial infections if they are found.
• Antifungal medication maybe required to ensure your fish recover quickly and efficiently.
• It may be recommended that the temperature of your pond is reduced safely, if possible, to help prevent the bacteria from being as aggressive.
• During treatment it is often recommended that the activated carbon is removed from your filter.

Following the instructions of the pond medic will enable the speedy recovery of your fish.

Prevention

To prevent any cases of fin and tail rot infection, we need to ensure that your fish are not immuno-compromised. This can be achieved by:

• Attaining and maintaining ideal water quality conditions.
• Ensuring your fish are fed appropriately and have a good nutritious diet.
• Have your pond regularly maintained.
• Ensure your fish have a low stress environment.
• Do not overcrowd your pond with livestock.

If you are unsure about your water quality and filter system, please the pond medic for advice. 07737 674417