Velvet (fish disease)

Velvet or Gold Dust Disease is a common fish disease that is caused by the parasite Oodinium pilularis, a dinoflagellate often present in both marine and freshwater habitats. This disease is also known as Rust, Gold Dust or Coral Disease.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of Velvet is a yellow to light brown dusting over the body and fins of the fish. This dusting can be so fine that it is often mistaken for a color change in the fish. Other symptoms include rapid breathing, lethargy, loss of appetite, and rubbing or scratching against objects in the tank.

Causes

Velvet is caused by the parasite Oodinium pilularis. This parasite is often present in the water, but only becomes a problem when the fish's immune system is compromised, often due to stress. The parasite attaches itself to the fish's skin and gills, causing irritation and damage.

Treatment

Treatment for Velvet involves increasing the temperature of the water to speed up the life cycle of the parasite, and then treating the water with a copper-based medication. It is also important to reduce stress in the fish by providing a healthy and stable environment.

Prevention

Prevention of Velvet involves maintaining a healthy and stable environment for the fish, including regular water changes and avoiding overcrowding. It is also important to quarantine new fish before adding them to the tank to prevent the introduction of the parasite.

See Also

• Fish diseases
• Parasites in fish
• Aquarium maintenance

Velvet (fish disease) Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia