ParasitesThe common parasites that affect Koi can be classified into 2 types: ones that can be seen with the naked eye and ones that can't. Parasite's usually don't kill a Koi, but can lead to more serious ailments like bacterial infections. Parasites that can be seen with the naked eye:Fish Louse (Argulus)Looks like a small circle with two dots. Argulus usually hangs out on the underside of Koi Anchor Worm (Lernea)Can be seen attached to the side of a Koi. Looks like a piece of thread. Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifilis)Also know as "white spot", Ich looks like little pieces of salt. Parasites that can't be seen with the naked eye:TrichodinaLooks like a spinning flying saucer. Trichodina causes web-like lesions. Flukes (Gyrodactylus & Dactylogyrus)Flukes usually hang out on the skin and gills of a Koi. The main difference between Gyrodactylus and Dactylogyrus is that Gyrodactylus is a live bearer and Dactylogyrus lays eggs. Costia (Ichthyobodo Necatrix)Costia is one of the smallest parasites that affect Koi. They are hard to find, you will need a microscope that has at least 40X magnification to find Costia.
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