Hole in the head / head and lateral line erosion (FHLLE) / Hexamitiasis

Quick Facts

Disease Name : Hole in the head / head and lateral line erosion (FHLLE) / Hexamitiasis

Diagnostic Method : Examination of tissue squash preparations

Symptoms

  • Pitting-type lesions on the head and lateral line
  • Color of fish will change into dark (blacken in color)
  • Holes of head and anus of sick fish
  • Head above the eyes gets thin
  • Crest of fish become brighter than the other parts of the body
  • Loss of appetite
  • Hiding in the corner it's head down
  • Swim backwards
  • White slimy material will often be released from gills, mouth
  • Fishes lay on closed places and do not have normal movement

Host (Common sp.)

  • Koi carp
  • Cichlids (angel fish, discus, and oscars)
  • Goldfish

Treatment Method

  • Metronidazole (flagyl) 5mg/1 liter for 3 hours and repeated every other day for three treatment
  • After three days make at least a 50% water change with carbon filtration for a minimum of 24 to 48 hours, or perform a complete water change
  • Improving nutrition by adding fresh or frozen meaty foods or vegetables
  • Water quality adjusted to the exact standards required for the fish