IFAS FA-37, Potassium Permanganate

IFAS# FA-37

Use of Potassium Permanganate to Control External Infections of Ornamental Fish

Ruth Francis-Floyd and RuthEllen Klinger

Opening Paragraph:
Many disease problems of ornamental fish begin as external infections. If uncontrolled, the infections may become systemic, resulting in death of the fish. Correct use of potassium permanganate can effectively control many bacterial, parasitic and fungal agents before systemic infections become established, often eliminating the need for antibiotic therapy. The fish owner saves money because use of expensive antibiotics is decreased, thereby decreasing the incidence of resistant bacterial strains. In the ornamental trade, correct use of potassium permanganate at the onset of an infection can also speed the movement of fish as they do not need to be held for lengthy (often 10-14 day) antibiotic treatments.

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