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Neon Tetra Disease
From The Aquarium Wiki
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[edit] About Neon Tetra Disease
Neon Tetra Disease is not a disease as such but a microsporidian parasite called Pleistophora. It is usually only seen in Neon Tetras and is contagious.
[edit] Symptoms
The symptoms of NTD are a general loss of condition, especially loss of the distinctive red stripe, increased breathing rate, unusual swimming behaviour, the spine may begin to curve, they may become excessively emmaciated and fin rot may occur. These symptoms bare a resemblance to the rarer Fish Tuberculosis.
This can be passed on to other species of Tetra, Danio and Barbs but this is rare.
[edit] Treatment
There are no real proven cures of NTD. Increased water changes and quarantining of the effected fish are a must. Medications will generally not kill the parasite itself but merely effect the secondary problems caused by it. Fish that appear cured may still be carriers of the parasite and should not be reintroduced to the main group. If a fish dies it must be immediately removed as cannabilism is rife with fish and this will pass the parasite on to those fish.
[edit] Avoidance
- Always closely observe Neon Tetras before purchase, if any look lethargic or sick with any of the above symptoms, do not buy any fish from that store or tank. Many Neon Tetras these days are overbred and inbred and this can lead to susceptibility to NTD.
- Quarantine new purchases if possible and watch for any symptoms over the following weeks. Medicate if necessary.
- Maintain pristine water conditions in the main tank with regular water changes and make sure the Tetras are fed the best foods possible.
