Goldfish Skin Flukes

Skin flukes are microscopic worms that attach themselves to goldfish with hooks surrounding their mouths. Poor water quality, overcrowding and stress can all lead to this type of goldfish illness. A low-level infestation is not likely to be noticed in an aquarium or pond, but a heavy infestation needs immediate attention. Skin flukes will either kill goldfish directly or lead to secondary goldfish diseases such as bacterial infection. A definite link between goldfish skin flukes and bacterial infection has been established. Unlike other goldfish diseases, skin flukes have an extraordinarily fast reproductive cycle. When a skin fluke is pregnant, the embryo inside it is also pregnant.

Symptoms of this goldfish illness include rubbing against objects in the tank or pond, opaque skin, localized reddening, inflammation of the skin and flashing of the goldfish's underparts. If the illness is left untreated the goldfish will become lethargic, motionless and have clamped fins.

Fortunately goldfish skin flukes are easy to treat. Potassium permanganate can be used, or proprietary remedies from a pet shop.