Goldfish Skin Flukes

Skin flukes are microscopic worms that attach themselves to goldfish with hooks surrounding their mouths.

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.

The Causes of Skin Flukes:

• Poor water quality
• Overcrowding
• Stress

The Symptoms of Skin Flukes:

Symptoms of this goldfish illness include:

• Rubbing against objects in the tank or pond
• Opaque skin
• Localized reddening
• Inflammation of the skin
• Flashing of the goldfish's underparts

If the illness is left untreated the goldfish will become:

• Lethargic
• Motionless
• Have clamped fins

The Treatment of Skin Flukes:

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