Columnaris

Columnaris known as a cottonmouth is a fish disease that results in infection caused by the gram negative. Columnaris earlier known as a bacillus Columnaris. The bacteria are mostly found in the freshwater and ponds.

The disease is infection spread virtually in low temparature 12-14, they are sometimes mistaken as a fungal infection which is highly dangerous.

The bacteria inject in the betta through the gills, mouth, or small wounds. The condition is more stressful because the tank is overcrowded and low in oxygen. The bacteria survive in the water for 32 days and prefer a hardness of 50 ppm. Healthy fish development minerals are essential but in Columnaris we limit the intake of the minerals thus impacting oxygen utilization, osmotic regulation, and biological processes.

The bacteria enter the ish through gills, mouth, and small wounds. In a Columnaris the water treatment removes minerals because increasing the mineral may be a chance to increase other diseases.

The symptoms are shown in frayed and ragged fins. Which followed to the skin, subsequent epidermal loss, white cloudy eyes, and fungus-like patches. Mucus also gathered on the gills, head, and dorsal region. Gills will change the color and become light and dark brown. Fish will breathe rapidly which is a sign of fin damage. In a young fish, morality is common.

Ulceration develops in 2 to 48 hours, and fatality starts in 48 to 72 hours. In a high temperature, they may be dead. The symptoms also include lethargy, loss of color, redness around the eyes, and rubbing the body around the tank area.

The fish can be treated with antibiotics. Aquarium salt is used. The first step of the treatment is a salt bath, lowering the temperature to around 24C. A medicated food container is also an effective treatment, potassium permanganate is effective for young fish.