Thread worm infection (Capillaria)

Symptoms

Stunted growth
Juvenile fish fail to grow at normal rates or develop adult colouration

Abdomen sunken
The lower part of the fish's body is hollow and wasted.

Faded colours
Colours of fish look washed out compared to normal.

Faeces white
Faeces are in long white strings hanging from body.

Listless and lethargic
Fish moves very lazily in water, much less than normal, lacks interest.

Abdomen swollen
Lower body of fish is bloated and swollen to a considerable degree.

Emaciation
Fish is fading away, looks as if it is starving to death.

Hiding abnormally
Fish hides behind rocks or suchlike, appearing seldom if ever.

Stays still at back of tank
Fish remain stationary at the back of the tank.

Nematode thread worm of genus capillaria.

Disease is seldom fatal quickly, giving time if recognized to treat with excellent results.

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DNA and RNA diagnostic references