Columnaris Disease
Columnaris Disease
Columnaris Disease is a frequent disease in the aquarium; it is caused by the bacterium Flexibacter columnaris. It can be most stubborn to eradicate and can reproduce at an alarming rate, able to take out a heavily populated tank in 72 hours. Treatment is possible, but only over a long period of time. So timing is key, and treatment must be implemented quickly for success. Also known as Mouth rot, Bacterial gill rot.
Columnaris Disease Identification
At the onset, small whitish spots on the snout, edges of scales, and/or fins. As it progresses, it takes on the appearance of mold or fungus. The fins rays will start to disintegrate, leaving them bare, exposing the fish to a fungal infection. If the gills get affected, the gill filaments will disintegrate from the tip to the gill arch. This causes the filaments to stick together from swelling and extra mucus/slime production; thus, the supply of oxygen is cut off or reduced, forcing rapid breathing.
Columnaris Disease Reproduction
Two forms of columnaris disease. Once the white areas gradually grow, the fish will die in a few days. Two of the white spots spread visibly inside for several hours, decimating everything. Higher temperature accelerates the reproduction.
Columnaris Disease Causes
Hitched a ride on something, poor water quality, high ammonia, low oxygen.
Columnaris Disease Treatments
Chloramphenicol (Chloromycetin), but hard to get and administer, needs to be dissolved in ethyl alcohol to be administered; it does not dissolve in water. It can be injected. Acriflavine long duration baths