100 THE GOLDFISH AND ITS CULTURE. 
Again there are diseases that make their appearance periodically, 
the origin of which is involved in as much obscurity as that called 
‘¢ pink-eye, ”’ which attacks horses, and of which all have heard more 
or less. 
ASPHYXIA. 
This affection is the one most commonly met with. The fish 
become weak, the colors fade away rapidly, the appetite is lost, and 
the fish finally die if the disease is permitted to run its course without 
hinderance 
The cause of the disease may be looked for in the interrupted 
functions of the gills. These organs become inflamed by the irritat- 
ting and poisonous gases that may exist in the water, or by the sudden 
changes of temperature in the same. 
If the disease has not already advanced too far, the ailing 
individual or individuals, should be taken from the collection, placed 
in a vessel containing a sufficient quantity of water, and in which a 
number of flourishing aquatic plants are growing. 
An even teaspoonful of common salt is then dissolved: in the 
water, the whole then put in a light, well ventilated place, and kept 
at a temperature between 70° and 80° F, During the first few days 
no food is necessary, and should not be given, after which the 
feeding may be re-commenced, beginning with very small quantities, 
administered at a regular hour each day. As the fish brighten up, 
and approach convalesence, the quantity may gradually be brought 
up to the usual amount. 
TUBERCULOSIS OR CONSUMPTION. 
The first sign of the presence of this disease shows itself in the 
indifference manifested by the affected individual. They are seen 
swimming about in a careless, purposeless way, now and then 
