Cryptocaryon Irritans

[Mr.Reefer]

This is probably the most common of the saltwater fish diseases that a hobbyist' s fish can have the displeasure of experiencing. Once the aquarist has learned to quickly recognize and correctly treat for this parasite, its bark can be worse than its bite. Cryptocaryon irritans infections usually progress much slower than Amyloodinium . If the fish are carefully observed on a daily basis, the telltale white, salt-size spots should be apparent before the infection gets out of control. Usually, some of the fish appear unaffected at the onset. Common names include the following: White Spot Disease and Saltwater Ich.
Some symptoms to look for are as follow:
• White spots about the size of a printed period or pin head. The parasite is
usually noticed on the skin and fins first, and later the eyes.
• Usually only some, but not all, of the fish are affected until the disease has
progressed for at least a few days.
• Spots seem to be gone but come back again after a few days.
• Some fish scratch but not as often or violently as seen with Amyloodinium
infections.
• Shuddering or twitching
• Hyperactivity in early stages
• Increased breathing rate, except in early stages
• Increased mucus production
• Faded colors
• Cloudy eyes associated with secondary bacterial infections
• Staying near the surface or in areas of high water flow
• Lack of appetite in advanced stages
• Hiding
• Fin rot or other secondary bacterial infection in late stages
• Multi-focal, de-pigmented skin erosions
• Dehydration and rapid weight loss in late stages