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Treating Koi Fish With Columnaris

 

Step 1: Quarantine the Infected Fish

• Move affected koi to a quarantine tank to prevent the disease from spreading.

• Ensure the tank has clean, well-aerated water with consistent temperature (75-78°F or 24-26°C).

 

Step 2: Treat the Water in the Quarantine Tank

​Medicated Bath Options

1. Potassium Permanganate (PP):

   • Use 2 ppm for 4-6 hours or follow package instructions.

   • This will reduce bacterial load on the fish's skin and fins.

2. Acriflavine or Formalin-Malachite Green:

   • Effective for treating external bacterial infections.

   • Follow manufacturer dosage for your tank size.

3. Salt Bath:

   • Create a salt bath using non-iodized salt at a concentration of 0.3-0.5%.

   • This helps reduce stress, improves mucus production, and inhibits bacterial growth.

 

Step 3: Administer Antibiotics

Oral Antibiotics

• Use medicated koi food containing Amoxicillin, Oxytetracycline, Kanamycin, or Minocycline.

• Feed the fish exclusively with this food for 10-14 days.

Injectable Antibiotics (Veterinary Supervision Recommended)

• Ampicillin, Enrofloxacin (Baytril), or Ceftazidime injections can directly combat severe bacterial infections.

 

 

Step 4: Topical Treatments for Affected Areas

1. Sedate the Fish:

   • Use a fish-safe anesthetic like clove oil (10-20 drops per gallon).

2. Clean the Lesions:

   • Gently clean ulcers or lesions on the body, mouth, or fins with iodine, Betadine, or hydrogen peroxide using a cotton swab.

3. Apply Antibacterial Ointment:

   • Use a koi safe topical antibiotic like Propolis, Debride Gel, or Neosporin.

 

Step 5: Boost Immunity

• Add vitamin-enriched food or supplements (Vitamin C or E) to the diet.

• Use stress-reducing water conditioners with aloe vera or other immune-boosting agents.

 

Step 6: Address the Pond Environment

Improve Water Quality

• Test water for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH levels. Correct any imbalances.

• Increase aeration and perform partial water changes (20-30%) to reduce organic load.

Disinfect the Pond

• Treat the entire pond with Potassium Permanganate or another broad-spectrum antibacterial agent to reduce bacterial load.

• Quarantine new or stressed fish before reintroducing them to the pond.

Observation and Follow-Up

• Monitor the fish daily for improvement. Look for reduced redness, healing of ulcers, and increased activity.

• If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a veterinarian specializing in aquatic animals.