[richy_c]

I was hoping for a response from someone here but sadly nothing...

So I spoke to my LFS and they said medications won't work now it's cold, so the best option was for a salt bath. I did this, and placed him in for about 10 minutes, aerating the bucket.

Then placed him back in the pond but he's no better. So he'll be getting another salt bath tomorrow in the hope that it kills off whatever is causing him the problem.

What on earth could it be?

[Davej]

Hi Richard

Without the benefit of a scrape I’m not sure it’s possible to really add anything to what has already been said.

I know it sounds "advanced" or "techy" but a microscope (or access to one) is really a basic tool in koi keeping. Sure that Freddy will vouch for the fact that taking your first scrape is not a difficult as it seems.

Dave

[richy_c]

I've ordered myself a microscope and will perform a scrape soon as its here.

It did sound a bit advanced but now I know, it's really not!

Cheers

Originally Posted by Davej

Hi Richard

Without the benefit of a scrape I’m not sure it’s possible to really add anything to what has already been said.

I know it sounds "advanced" or "techy" but a microscope (or access to one) is really a basic tool in koi keeping. Sure that Freddy will vouch for the fact that taking your first scrape is not a difficult as it seems.

Dave

[richy_c]

Sadly after returning from work today, the koi had died.

What's worse was that my microscope arrived today...

[Kanundra]

So sorry for your loss,

did you do a fish scrape on another just to see if there were any parasites present? Just because you lost one, and the others are happy etc that there isn't something there. Best be safe, especially as you got a scope too.

I have some problems in my pond, lucky for me, for a small price there is always someone about to help.

I do want a scope, but the husband won't let me get one as I'd be scraping the fish every week.... paranoia or not, I was right to say that there were bugs in there this time. Hopefully no losses.

Take care,

Dawn

[richy_c]

Well here I am 6 months later and I have the same problem with another fish. The difference is I did a scrape, and could see nothing. It was clear but I know something is definitely up. I've been treating with NT Labs F-M-G and he showed a little improvement at the beginning but not now. I've been treating the pond for 2 weeks now.

I've checked his gills and there is no mucus. The gills are red (ish) but look normal. His breathing is laboured and he hasn't eaten anything for ages. He's also hanging near the surface (or floating).

I'm really worried and need advice as I hate to see him struggling. Should I salt bath him?

Here's a video of him Koi struggling to breath - YouTube

[Kanundra]

Hi there,

So sorry that there are still some problems. It could be that the original problem wasn't discovered and that it has wintered with the stronger koi.

May I ask what mag you're looking through the scope with?

I ask this because I was pretty new to it and I was using too high a mag.

This koi is in trouble. A strong salt bath for 10-15 mins won't hurt at all. Temperatures are still against us with treating for anything. I am so sorry for you.

When you catch the fish, take another mucus scrape before you put it in a salt bath, and hopefully you might see something.

Fingers crossed for you, its a testing time of year for a lot of us.

If you have treated for some parasites, it could be that you have something else.

Really hard to say, you could need a second pair of eyes. Anyone live closer to you?

Dawn

[Mark i]

Hi Rich,

Dont go adding anymore chemicals until the underlying cause has been found as you could make it worse. A lot of outlets seem to be selling fmg as a miracle cure but it isn't. I would stop the fmg as it doesnt appear to be the right treatment also you need at least 7days between treatments.
As well using the right mag on your microscope (100x - 200x) dont have the light to bright.
What are all your water readings? when you do water changes do you use a purifier?
Where abouts are you? as someone maybe local and willing to have a look

Regards Mark

[richy_c]

Yes he's not well It really worries me.

The microscope shows 100, 450 and 900 magnification. I'm new to microscopes so really struggled.

I've only added 2 lots of FMG 7 days apart. Water parameters are normal and all the other fish are very healthy and feeding as normal. Water changes are done though a dechlorinator (when using tap water) but I also change a lot of water using a water butt.

I'm based in Crediton, EX17 1GD. Anyone local who knows more would be most welcomed.

I'm worried about giving a salt bath, as this is what finished the last one off in November, even though salt dosage was spot on.

[Mark i]

I wouldnt be using a water butt as who knows what nasties are in there.
When you say "normal" what are the readings and when did you last test the water?

Regards Mark