ISSN: 2577-4050
Authors: Dharavath RK, Jagadeeshwara CT* and Bhukya SK
Ornamental fish, cherished for their beauty and diversity, are susceptible to various diseases that can affect their health and vitality. This review provides an overview of the most common diseases encountered in ornamental fish, their etiology, clinical signs, and management strategies. Among the prevalent diseases are bacterial infections such as columnaris disease, caused by Flavobacterium columnare, and Aeromonas infections, manifesting as ulcers and fin rot. Viral diseases like viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus (VHSV) and infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) pose significant threats to ornamental fish populations, leading to systemic hemorrhaging and mortality. Fungal infections, predominantly caused by species of Saprolegnia and Achlya, result in cotton-like growth on the skin and fins. Parasitic infestations by protozoans (e.g., Ichthyophthirius multifiliis), monogeneans (e.g., Gyrodactylus spp.), and crustaceans (e.g., Argulus spp.) are common and can cause significant morbidity and mortality if left untreated. Environmental stressors, poor water quality, and inadequate husbandry practices often predispose ornamental fish to disease outbreaks.
Keywords: Ornamental Fishes; Columnaris Disease; Flavobacterium Columnare; Saprolegnia and Achlya
