ILLNESS: NITROGEN INTOXICATION

Other names: None Type of disesase: Nitrogen intoxication is not a disease. It is actually a water quality issue. Cause: Overcrowed tank, insufficient maintenance, insufficient filtration, over feeding.

Symptoms: Rapid breathing, usually at the surface of the water. Shimmy. Quick darting movements at first, followed by lethargy as the fish begin to die. Fish coloration appears either normal or more intense until after death. Gills may turn red or bloody.

Medication:
Immediate water change (at least 50%). Reduce fish load if the tank is overcrowded or stocked with sensitve species. Frequent testing is recommended. Additional information: High nitrogen levels will stress your fish which might cause other problems and diseases.