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mycobacteria, mycoplasms, nematode worms, and hydra
Mycoplasms and mycobacteria are different "bugs". The prefix "myco-" is
also typically associated with fungi. These similar names cause lots of
confusion. "Fish TB" is caused by mycobacteria. Sadly, the best treatment
for mycobacteriosis in fishes is to dispose of the fishes, discard the
contents of the tank, and sterilize the equipment with household bleach
diluted to 10%. Attempts to treat this disease with conventional antibiotics
over the short treatment period usually reccommended on packaging will have
no effect. Long term treatment using special antibiotic combinations has
only limited usefulness.
Another useful antiworming drug is fenbendezole, usually sold under the
name of Panacure. It is safer than ivomectin, and is best administered in
the fishes food. Gel diets are a good way to accomplish this. Surprisingly
it is also a good treatment for hydra when added to aquarium water.
Pete Mohan,
Kent, Ohio