There is no mistaking this ugly problem. These grotesque parasites measure about one fifth of an inch wide. They are round, disk-shaped creatures that clamp on to a host and refuse to let go. Sometimes the infected fish will rub up against objects in the tank in an effort to scrape these pests off. Some fish have been known to jump out of the water in an attempt to cleanse themselves of these ghastly crustaceans. They suck blood and other nutrients out of the fish through the skin and scales. They can sometimes be found on fins, but these are usually not quite so satisfying for them. The lice also transmit other microscopic diseases. After the parasite disengages, the part of the fish suffering the bite may become infected.

Fortunately, there are a number of quality commercial parasite-control products out on the market. Your pet store owner can help you select one. The fish should be quarantined and the tank disinfected with the same parasite control.

On larger fish, experts have been known to drip hot paraffin wax from a candle onto the parasite. Usually this is enough to get the parasite to release. Other experts recommend giving the afflicted fish a bath for fifteen minutes in a mixture of potassium permanganate and water, which should be extremely light pink. Consult your local pet store owner first. Regardless, lice are extremely treatable, but both the fish and the aquarium must be treated.

Most often recommended for aquarium treatment for fish lice, anchor worms and leeches are Dip Terex, Masoten, Dylox or Nequvon. All bite marks or wounds must be treated on the fish. Dab on the spot a little Mercurochrome, malachite green or methylene blue. Note: Do not use Formalin in this case¡ªits margin for error is so slim that not only will you kill the parasites; you will more than likely kill your goldfish. This should be used by professionals only.

Related posts:

1. The Basics of Pet Goldfish: Leeches (highly contagious)

2. The Basics of Pet Goldfish: Fish Pox (probably not contagious)

3. The Basics of Pet Goldfish: Swim Bladder Problems (not contagious)

4. The Basics of Pet Goldfish: Diseases of the Goldfish

5. The Basics of Pet Goldfish: Velet and Fungus

6. The Basics of Pet Goldfish: The Old-fashioned Salt Bath

7. The Basics of Pet Goldfish: Hand-Stripping

8. The Basics of Pet Goldfish: Aquarium Accessories

9. The Basics of Pet Goldfish: Emergency Cleaning

10. Two Simple Steps to Introduce Fish into Your Aquarium