As a pet shop floor manager, I've often had to deal with the concerns of shubunkin fish owners. Unfortunately, these beautiful, brightly-coloured creatures can be prone to a variety of diseases. In this article, I'm going to share with you my experience and knowledge of the signs and treatments of disease in shubunkin fish. shubunkin fish. Whether you're an aquarium enthusiast or a beginner, this information will be invaluable in caring for your little scaly swimmers.
Recognising the symptoms of shubunkin disease
Quickly identify signs of illness in your shubunkin fish is essential if you are to provide the necessary care. Here are the main symptoms to look out for:
Changes in behaviour
A sick shubunkin may show unusual behaviour, such as :
- Erratic or unbalanced swimming
- A stillness at the bottom of the aquarium
- Loss of appetite
- Rapid or laboured breathing
I remember one customer telling me that his shubunkin, which was usually so lively, was prostrate in the corner of the aquarium. It was the first sign of a health problem.
Physical changes
Diseases can also manifest themselves through visible changes in the fish's body:
- White spots on the body (sign of ichthyophthiriosis)
- Damaged or frayed fins
- Loss of colour or dulling of the scales
- Excessive mucus on the body
- Exorbated eyes (exophthalmos)
Signs of good health
Conversely, a shubunkin in top form can be recognised by :
- Active, balanced swimming
- A good appetite
- Bright, vibrant colours
- Normal, regular breathing
Treatment and prevention of shubunkin diseases
When a shubunkin fish falls ill, it's essential to act quickly and effectively. Here are the main steps to follow to treat your little aquatic companion and prevent the onset of new illnesses.
Treatment of common illnesses
Depending on the disease diagnosed, different treatments can be implemented:
| Disease | Treatment |
|---|---|
| White spots (ichthyophthiriosis) | Specific anti-parasite drugs |
| Fin rot | Antibiotics and improving water quality |
| Hydropathy | Antibiotic treatment and salt baths |
| Fungal infections | Antifungals and adjustment of water parameters |
Don't hesitate to consult a specialist vet if you have any doubts about your fish's health. I once had to rush a customer's shubunkin to the vet. Believe me, it was quite an adventure carrying this little guy in a bag full of water!
Preventive measures
To prevent the onset of disease, here are a few essential tips:
- Maintain optimum water quality with regular water changes
- Check water parameters frequently (pH, temperature, nitrates)
- Avoid overcrowding the aquarium (allow at least 100L for a shubunkin).
- Offer a balanced, high-quality diet
- Quarantine new fish before introducing them into the main aquarium.
These preventive measures are crucial to keeping your shubunkins in good health. Did you know that these magnificent fish can live up to 15-20 years in good conditions? That's the equivalent of a cat's lifetime!
Ideal environment for a healthy shubunkin
To prevent illness and ensure your shubunkin's well-being, it's vital to provide it with the right environment:
- Water temperature: between 15 and 20°C
- Aquatic plants: provide hiding places and purify the water
- Ample swimming space: shubunkins love to swim
- Can cohabit with koi and goldfish
Don't forget that shubunkins are particularly susceptible to parasites such as carp lice. Regular monitoring is therefore essential. If you're thinking of keeping these magnificent fish in an outdoor pond, I recommend you take a look at this guide. complete guide to creating a koi pond. The principles are similar and you'll find invaluable advice.
Keeping your shubunkins in tip-top shape
As a keen aquarist, I can only encourage you to look after your shubunkins with care and love. These colourful, lively fish will repay you a hundredfold! Remember that prevention is the key to a thriving aquatic life. Observe your fish regularly, look after their habitat with care, and don't hesitate to seek professional advice if you have any doubts.
With the right care and the right environment, your shubunkins will become real swimming gems, brightening up your home with their shimmering colours for many years to come. So grab your buckets and thermometers, and long live your shubunkins!
External sources :
English 
French