
AILMENTS AND DISEASES 

When startled it will slowly sink to the bottom, soon to return to its 
former position, or when on the bottom will seek to secrete itself. 
This appearance is sometimes due to improper water conditions, which 
may be easily remedied. But when the body becomes coated and the fins 
pointed, then frayed, ragged, congested .or inflamed, as these are certain 
indications of advanced illness, it behooves the fancier to investigate the 
cause or to consult an experienced breeder. Let it be stated, however, that 
it is not well to accept of promiscuous advice. 
TREATMENT OF Drseases. In treating the diseases of goldfishes the 
natural self-remedies of freshwater fishes should be applied under similar 
conditions as far as practicable. In a state of nature the fishes seek brack- 
ish or salt water, saline deposits or salty earths for some of their illnesses; 
or darkness, light, deep or shallow water, abstinence from food, natural 
purgatives and rest for others. These conditions should be imitated by 
the aquariist when his pets become afflicted with such ailments that in his 
judgment would be benefited by their application. In addition the rem- 
edies hereafter mentioned should be tried. 
SANITARIUM AND Hospirat. Where many fishes are kept, it is advis- 
able to have an aquarium or battery jar in reserve in which a luxuriant plant 
growth has been developed, to serve as a sanitarium in which fishes of 
doubtful appearance may be isolated and quarantined, to prevent the spread 
of diseases, and which would also serve as a “snail farm” as young snails 
are one of the best articles of diet for sick fishes. .In such sanitarium the 
plants should be grown in pots or dishes that they may be removed with- 
out disturbance when it is necessary to thoroughly clean both the jar and 
the plants. It may be well to here mention that a gg5 solution of 
bichloride of mercury can be used for cleaning purposes, but plants and 
receptacle must afterwards be thoroughly washed with clean water. 
As a hospital a well seasoned tank, if possible one having an active 
growth of alge on its sides, is best. It should contain considerable well 
developed plant life and the water should have a bright green color, indi- 
cating an active growth of the smaller alge. The plants should be rooted 
in clean soil in pots with a slight covering of grit, because earth and mud 
are beneficial to sick fishes. The tank should have a large surface area as 
compared with its depth; the latter not to exceed 12 inches. In the sum- 
mer, it should be partially protected from the sun, but in winter it should 
get the full sunlight, and should be kept at a temperature of 60° to 70° F. 
One end may be covered with a board when fishes are introduced, for rest 
and shade. 
All vessels for fishes having contagious and parasitic diseases should 
be of glass, so that they may be thoroughly cleansed. A sick fish does 
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