After 6 years of fish keeping, I unfortunately have a sick fish in my hands. The good thing is that I caught this early. All signs pointed at Oodinium (one of the top two marine parasites, the other one is Cryptocaryon). Oodinium unsually targets the gills first, and as the disease progresses the cysts become more visible on the outer portions of the fish. Signs to look for at the beggining of the infection are fish scratching excessively on the battom sand or rocks, and hanging on top or bottom of the tank and gasping. You will also be able to see a dust like (powder coating) on the body and fins of the fish.

My treatment in this case was a great medication called "Quick Cure" by Mardel. In a bare tank ONLY and with mechanical filtration (no chemical [activated carbon] or biological), 80 to 81 degrees temperature (to speed the life cycle of the parasite), and no light, use as follows:

-1 drop per gallon daily for three days max. Replace carbon after 24 hours from the last treatment.

-If further medication is required, perform a 25% water change before starting another treatment cycle.

You can also use this medication for freshwater fish. This mediacation gives fast relief for Ick and Protozoan Parasites, Mild Fluke outbreaks, Costia, Chilodonella, Trichodina, and others.

Hope this helps.

Albert.