Ornamental Fish Q&A 22
This Moorish idol is markedly exophthalmic and on close inspection a large air bubble can be seen behind the globe.
| Question | Answer | Article | |
| What is this condition called? | Supersaturation or gas-bubble disease. |
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| How does this problem develop? | The most common cause of this problem is a cavitating pump which literally supersaturates the water with atmospheric air (meaning the majority of the gas will be nitrogen). Excessive oxygen production by algae and other plants is a less frequent cause. Over-aerating an aquarium with air bubbles from an air stone can, but rarely does, lead to supersaturation disease. |
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| How is this condition treated? | Treatment usually involves finding the source of the excessive gas and eliminating it. In the case of a cavitating pump, filling the sump or reservoir or locating a leak in the system usually solves the problem. Air bubbles under the skin and within the fins will usually resolve within a day or two. Air bubbles in the circulatory system, especially in the branchial vasculature, can be acutely fatal. |
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| List four other general causes of exophthalmia in fish. | Ammonia toxicity, ocular parasites, septicemia, and neoplasia. |
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