How to Kill Pond Parasites

Pond parasites can kill fish and harm humans.

Garden ponds can hold a variety of aquatic plants and are a good location for fish, which add color to the pond. Unfortunately, some ponds are overrun with parasites. Parasites attack fish in the pond, causing the fish to rub against the side of the pond and lose their scales, change color and in some cases die. Treatment for parasites depends on the parasite type living in your pond.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Calculator

Instructions

1. Collect a sample of water from your pond and send it to your local university extension service for identification of the parasite. Collect any dead fish and inspect the scales for signs of parasites attached to the scales.

2. Measure the length, width and depth of the pond.

3. Multiply the length, by the width, by the average depth; and then multiply by 6.23 to find the amount of water in gallons inside the pond.

4. MIx into the pond the required parasitic control for your parasite at the dosage rate for the amount of water that is in your pond.

Tips & Warnings

• Watch your fish. If they are "dancing" or "flashing" around the pond, rubbing themselves against the sides of the pond, it is likely they have a parasite.

References

• The East Riding Koi Co. Medications and Treatments: Parasites and Methods of Controlling Them
• Pond Doc: Flash Dance - A Closer Look at Parasites