Symptoms & urgent help
Gill disease: breathing problems with many causes
Gill damage can result from water problems, parasites or infections. A running air pump does not rule out a gill problem.
Start with observations
Record breathing rate, water readings, recent chemicals and which fish are affected. Avoid repeated handling of a fish that is already struggling to breathe.
Get the appropriate examination
A qualified professional may need to examine gills and arrange laboratory tests. A negative skin scrape cannot settle every gill diagnosis.
An urgent route
If several fish deteriorate or die, seek urgent help and consult the official disease-reporting guidance. Do not assume more parasite treatment is the answer.
Sources & further reading
Original WakeyKoi wording, informed by the references below. Linked clinical resources explain the evidence and their scope; they have not reviewed or endorsed this website.
Related guides
Educational guidance cannot diagnose an individual fish. Breathing distress, severe injury or unexplained losses need prompt professional assessment.