Diseases of the eyes of aquarium fish

Typically, eye problems in aquarium fish are caused by trauma, infection, parasites, gas bubble disease, and neoplasia. In general terms, the structure of the eyes of fish corresponds to the structure of the eyes of other animals, however, the eyes of the fish are devoid of eyelids, are very large and, therefore, vulnerable to damage. Considering the living conditions of the fish, namely, various decorations, aquarium equipment, stones, plants, as well as neighbors who are often aggressive, it is quite understandable why the statistics of eye diseases are so impressive. But with an eye injury, everything is just beginning. After damage to the shell, fungi, infections, viruses and parasites take over, which just provoke serious complications.

With the development of diseases, the eyes of the fish can become swollen, cloudy, bulging, bloody, etc. The symptoms depend on the specific disease, and there are quite a few of them. However, the most common eye problems in aquarium fish are:

• Corneal edema

Swelling and subsequent clouding of the eye is a consequence of the accumulation of fluid in the inflamed or irritated cornea. Often severe swelling is accompanied by a bacterial infection. However, despite the fact that a swollen eye can look very depressing, with the timely and correct prescription of antibiotics, the problem is easily eliminated. A veterinarian diagnoses the disease and prescribes treatment.

• Corneal ulcers

Corneal ulcers are formed with physical damage to the eyes (cuts, scratches, bites, etc.). Progressive ulcers can subsequently cause serious injury to the eye. Corneal ulcers are diagnosed by a veterinarian using a special dye applied to the cornea. In mild cases, no treatment is needed and the eye heals naturally, but for moderate to severe injuries, antibiotics are applied to the eye.

• Bulging (exophthalmia)

Bulging is not a separate disease, but a sign of another disease, and can affect one or both eyes. Most often, this is a symptom of serious injury, frequent infections, gas bubble disease, or a consequence of unfavorable water parameters in the aquarium. The affected eye begins to see much worse, in addition, there is a high risk of loss of vision. 

• Cataract

With a cataract, the lens becomes cloudy and loses the ability to fully transmit light. This disease is not so common in fish and, as a rule, develops due to genetic predisposition, improper housing conditions, in particular, feeding, and severe injuries. A powerful prevention of cataracts is proper feeding and constant observance of favorable conditions of detention.

• Eye loss

Loss of gas is provoked by a serious injury, however, the tissues of the fish heal quickly, and after some time your pet will feel great with one eye. Over time, the new tissue grows and completely covers the eye socket, so the absence of an eye does not spoil the appearance of the fish so seriously.

Take care of your little pets!