Argulus (Fish Lice)

Argulus (aka Fish Lice) are more developed than most of the other parasites.  You can see them quite well without using a microscope.  They move around and itch the fish and cause complications that can kill koi and goldfish.

How to Recognize, Treat and Prevent Argulus in Your Koi or Goldfish Pond

All you must do is get close to the fish to see these little creatures.  And - creatures is probably a good word for them because they are so well developed with legs and what looks like a type of skeleton.  Like most parasites Argulus is easy to get rid of if you treat the pond with the right stuff.

Recognizing Argulus

You can't mistake Argulus.  They look like tiny see-through, jelly-filled, little creatures with several pairs of legs and a tail.  They are only about 1/4 inch long and tend to take on a green tint.  Basically, if you see a small round thing that has visible legs and almost invisible body around it your fish have lice!    

Treating Argulus

It's very simple to treat.  We suggest using ProForm LA, Fluke Tabs or Anti-Fluke.  ProForm LA is best to use if it's cold when treating because it works in lower temperatures though it also works fine during summer.  Fluke Tabs are easier to use for quarantine tanks because each tab treats 100 gallons.  Anti-Fluke (which is part of our Parasite Pak) is best used in warmer weather.

Salt will do nothing for argulus.  It doesn't hurt to perform a salt treatment along with any of the treatments described above because it will encourage the fish's natural protective slime layer to form and it won't have any interactions with the medications.

You will need to have de-chlorinator on hand (if you use chlorinated water) because some water changes will be necessary.

Emergency Procedures

1. Treat the whole pond with either ProForm LA, Anti-Fluke or Fluke Tabs.
2. For added benefits, perform a salt treatment while treating for anchor worm.

What to Expect Next

Secondary conditions are not uncommon with argulus because it makes holes in the skin of the koi or goldfish for bacteria to invade.  This often leads to ulcers which will need to be treated as they are noticed.

Preventing Argulus

Quarantining and treating any new koi or goldfish is the key to preventing any infestation of argulus. 

More Information About Argulus

• Buyer Beware - The Importance of Quarantine
• Flash Dance - A Closer Look at Parasites

Items You Might Need:

Parasite Pak

ProForm LA

Trichloracide

Doc's De-Chlorinator

Know Your Gallons!

Heavy Duty Water Meter

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