Parasites Found in Freshwater Tanks

Parasites are organisms living on or in another animal. In fish they generally are harmful to the fish's health and may shorten its life. Many parasites can live in freshwater tanks. Filters can be helpful in keeping fresh water circulated and oxygen-rich and, according to Aquatic Community, tank owners should be careful about putting sick fish into tanks, in order to avoid spreading parasites. Protozoa are the leading parasites found in freshwater fish, according to the University of Florida.

  1. Gyrodactylus Parasite

    • Gyrodactylus parasites are commonly found in freshwater tanks, according to the Fish Site. These parasites tend to live in the mucous membranes of fish gills and can survive as long as five days. The blood and skin of a fish are at great risk of deterioration once the microorganism has infected its body. Clusters of gyrodactylus parasites can reproduce rapidly, thus contaminating fresh water and spreading health problems.

    Trichodina Parasite

    • Trichodina is another parasite found in freshwater tanks, according to Reefs. This circular microorganism thrives in water with low pH measurements. Trichodina attach to the scales and skin of fish and can cause neurological problems, including awkward fin bending. According to the University of Florida, these microorganisms reproduce rapidly.

    Oodinium Pillularis Parasite

    • Oodinium pillularis parasites can be major pests in freshwater tanks, according to Reefs. Attaching to fish gills, these parasites can damage lungs, causing the fish to pant. As oodinium pillularis parasites grow, they detach from fish and sink into the water, where cells quickly reproduce. These parasites tend to cause problems when fish are under stress fish after transferring from one tank to another, according to Aquatic Community.