This is the stage at which many hobbyists are fooled into thinking they have defeated Ich. Once embedded in the substrate, the parasite-referred to as a Tomont at this stage -starts to form anywhere from 200 to 1000 (or more) child cells, called Tomites, inside its walls. During this brief 2-8 hour time frame the parasite moves onto the substrate to begin reproducing. 3) Drop-OffĪfter 3-9 days of feeding, the Trophont releases from the fish and is known as a Protomont. This is the stage at which infection is evident as little white salt-sized dots on the fish's skin. The Trophont burrows into the fish and consumes the flesh. Once the Theront finds a host, it attaches and is now called a Trophont. During all other stages, the parasite is too well protected to be treated with known Ich medications. This is the stage at which the parasite can be effectively killed with medication. This is a sensitive stage for the parasite because if it does not find a host within 48 hours, it will starve and die. The free-swimming Theronts search for a host to prey upon. The life cycle of Marine Ich consists of four unique stages in which the parasite takes on five different forms:ĭuring each stage, the parasite performs a different function that helps ensure its own survival. With a little understanding of Marine Ich's life cycle, it will be much easier to effectively treat and rid your aquarium of this parasite. This parasite is difficult to treat inside an aquarium because it goes through several different life cycles. It can quickly turn lethal when the parasite clogs the fish's gills, preventing respiration.
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Marine Ich preys upon fish by burrowing into the flesh and gills and can cause extensive damage. The infected fish may breathe rapidly or quickly rub its body on objects in your tank. Once a fish is infected, small white cysts on the skin, fins, and inside of the gills may be visible. Marine Ich, Cryptocaryon irritans, is a common fish disease caused by an external parasite.