Here's why:
* Different transmission methods: While humans usually get STDs through sexual contact, fish can get infected through various means, including:
* Direct contact: During spawning, fish may transfer parasites or bacteria through close contact.
* Environmental transmission: Some infections can spread through water, contaminated surfaces, or infected fish in the environment.
* Oral transmission: Certain parasites can be transmitted through the ingestion of infected fish.
* Fish-specific diseases: Fish can suffer from various diseases that are transmitted during spawning or through contact. Some examples include:
* Viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS): A viral disease that can be spread through close contact or infected water.
* Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ich): A parasitic infection that can be spread through direct contact or through the environment.
* Columnaris disease: A bacterial infection that can be spread through water, stress, or injury.
It's important to note that not all diseases transmitted through sexual contact in humans are present in fish. However, the concept of diseases transmitted through close contact during breeding or spawning remains valid for fish.
In summary, while fish don't get STDs in the human sense, they can be infected with diseases that spread through close contact during spawning or other means.