The Japanese carp that is more commonly known as the Koi fish (or Nishikigoi in Japan) are common carps that have been selectively bred. They are often used for an ornamental and decorative purpose, and are usually seen in outdoor ponds and water gardens which seem to compliment their colors well. Since extensive breeding is often done by many hobbyists, proper koi treatment is very important for the prevention of infection or to counteract effects of certain diseases.
Treatment for Prevention
Keeping a healthy pond should be a priority to avoid any type of infection or disease. The use of the right information to guide you is a step you should take before housing these colorful aquatic creatures. Infection is the most common disease acquired by many different kinds of fish, so careful study on what prevention methods work best for koi against infection is paramount.
Make a first aid kit for your pond - so you will always be ready for anything. PH level test kits and those that can measure levels of chlorine and toxic ammonia should be present in order to be sure that your pond is free from elements that are toxic to koi fish. Adding an iodine compound like Betadine is a good idea for disinfection of possible harmful virus or bacteria living in the pond. The right concentration of formaldehyde should also be obtained for treatment of external parasites - usually about 37% to 40% strength in water.
Infection on Koi Fish
Two types of infections are usually responsible for the disease of koi fish: Parasitic Infections and Bacterial Infections.
Parasitic Infection is an infection that results from an infestation of underwater parasites. These parasites are often carried by frogs, toads, or certain birds that have easy access to an outdoor pond. Common parasites seen in these situations are Ick (Costia), skin and gill flukes, lice, leeches, and anchor worms. In some instances where the koi fish came from a poor quality source, some of these parasites may already be present on the fish prior to purchasing. Remember that for parasitic infections, treatments done are not for the koi fish but for the pond. The purpose of the treatment is directed to the elimination of the parasites causing the disease.
Another infection that koi fish often acquire is Bacterial Infection (commonly caused by Aeromonas and Pseudomonas). Chlorine is often used as a preventive measure against this type of infection.
In a bacterial infection, the epidermal layer of the fish (which is the outer slime used as a protective layer) is broken, usually from scratching against rocks or living in poor water quality, leaving the bacteria free to enter its system. Koi treatment for sores varies depending on the severity of the infection. For minor sores, hydrogen peroxide on q-tip is used; for sores that are more complicated, the use of medicated ointment or antibiotics that are injected are often favored. The addition of salt to the water favors the treatment and in situations where the koi fish is hard to catch or if it's still too small for injection, medicated food can be given.
