Bala Shark Eye Disease

Bala sharks, although not true sharks, are popular among freshwater aquaria enthusiasts. These, attractive, peaceful, but active, fish need lots of space to accommodate their optimal growth. Like all freshwater tropicals they can, on occasion, be afflicted with eye ailments or diseases.

  1. Species-specific Considerations

    • Balas are quite active swimmers, good jumpers and grow to 14 inches in length. Providing them with a lot of space will help to prevent injuries to the eyes caused by abrasion or impact with the tank or objects within it.

    Prevention

    • Most diseases in tropical fish can be prevented by maintaining good water quality and not overcrowding. Regular water changes of 30 to 40 percent, weekly to every two weeks, should be the rule, not the exception.

    Pop Eye

    • Fluid buildup within or behind the eye causes it to protrude abnormally. This is usually caused by a bacterial infection although there can be other causes such as kidney problems, dropsy or edema. Poor water quality is often the culprit. The disorder is treatable.

    Eye Fungus

    • Eye fungus is characterized by a whitish film or cotton-like growth covering the lens of the eye or eyes. This is usually caused by the Saprolegnia fungus. The condition is easily treated.

    Eye Fluke

    • The fish will appear to have a whitish speck in the eye and may exhibit erratic behavior such as appearing to try to rub itself against objects in the tank. This is caused by a small, parasitic worm, called a fluke, that has attached itself to the These parasites can be eradicated with treatment.

    Tuberculosis

    • One frequent sign of tuberculosis in freshwater tropicals is one or both eyes falling out. Although tuberculosis can be treated, it is best to destroy the sick fish and sterilize the tank and equipment. This disease can be transmitted to humans.