Saprolegniasis
Saprolegniasis is a fungal disease of fish and fish eggs most commonly caused by the Saprolegnia species called “water molds.” They are common in fresh or brackish water.
Lesions
- focal grey-white patches on the skin which have a cotton wool-like appearance under water when the hyphal elements extend out. The early lesions are circular and extend out until they merge.
- The patches can then become dark grey or brown as the mycelium traps mud or debris.
- The head region is most commonly involved, but any part of the skin or gills, even internal organs, can be affected.
- Respiratory distress may be evident if the gills are involved, and death can follow rapidly.
Diagnosis
- The clinical signs are quite characteristic.
- Skin scrapes examined under the microscope may help identify the fungal hyphae which belong to Saprolegnia.
- Histopathology reveals: the fungus invading the stratum spongiosum of the dermis and then the epidermis, causing erosions as it spreads.
Treatment
- Salt: 1–5g / litre indefinitely
- Malachite green: 0.10mg/litre – three treatments at three-day intervals
- Potassium permanganate at 3-4 ppm every fourth day for four treatments with hydrogen peroxide reversal.