Common Name:  Body Fungus

Pathogen/Cause: Saprolegnia spp.

Physical Signs: A very fuzzy growth which projects from the skin or fins of the fish. Usually has the "fluffy" appearence of food molds, can be white or grey. Needs to be differentiated from "false mouth fungus" Columnaris (see above). True parasitic fungus prefers to grow on already dead tissue and will often coexist with bacterial infections.

Behavioral Signs: Usually not severely affected until later stages.

Potential Treatment: Many formulations available, including brand names: Jungle Fungus Guard, Mardel Maroxy, Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Fungus Cure and generic formulations usually containing methylene blue.

Other Notes: Fungal infections are relatively rare but do happen in already weakened fish. They will be very distinct in appearence, as opposed to Columnaris, which is probably far more commonly seen in the aquarium (less protrusion of fibers, just a ragged fuzzy appearence). See photos to differentiate.

Common Name:  Cotton Fin Fungus

Pathogen/Cause: Various, often Saprolegnia spp.

Physical Signs: Cotton-like "fluffy" or wispy growth trailing on fins of fish. Can gradually promote decay of tissue.

Behavioral Signs: Usually not severely affected until later stages.

Potential Treatment: Many formulations available, including brand names: Jungle Fungus Guard, Mardel Maroxy, Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Fungus Cure and generic formulations usually containing methylene blue.

Other Notes: Prefers to attack already damaged or injured tissue. Most important action is to do water changes and increase circulation of the system. Saprolegnia prefers to live in stagnant water. Sometimes improvement of water quality alone will erradicate the disease.