NANFA-- Anchor worms in wild caught Fundulus diaphanus

Jim Langan (jpl_at_wrmed.com)
Thu, 30 Sep 1999 08:37:21 -0500

Hello everyone,

I have a wild caught Fundulus diaphanus from eastern Wisconsin. After
examination I have concluded that these fish are infested with anchor worms
[as best I can tell]. The worms are .5-.7 inches long, attached to the
skin [below scales] of the fish. a small "y" is present on the outer most
segment of the trunk. I've tried 8 days on "aquari-sol" [copper sulfate
based] and 4 days on "quick cure" [methelene blue based" and 3 days on
"formalin".

My water temperature is 70 - 74 degrees F. fluctuating slightly between day
and night. I have given the fish regular water changes and I am convinced
that the worms [there are specifically two] are not multiplying.

Some thoughts that I have had are to raise the water temperature to 85
degrees F. and re-try the treatments. Physically remove the worms and
treat with a mild antibiotic until the fish heals. My concern about the
later is that the worms could grow back.

Is it possible that these may not be anchor worms. I've not seen any
viable pictures in any of my fish books, however, several fellow killie
keepers have come to my conclusion on the diagnosis.

Any suggestions are sincerely appreciated.

Thanks in advance,

Jim Langan

jim.langan_at_dyn-eng.com

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