How can I control ticks on eel? - briefly
Apply a water‑soluble acaricide approved for aquaculture, following the manufacturer’s dosage and safety guidelines. Combine treatment with routine water filtration, regular health inspections, and quarantine of new stock to prevent re‑infestation.
How can I control ticks on eel? - in detail
Ticks on eel present a health risk that can be mitigated through a systematic approach combining inspection, sanitation, chemical treatment, biological agents, and environmental management.
First, conduct a thorough visual examination of each eel, focusing on the dorsal surface, fins, and gill area. Remove any visible parasites with fine tweezers, taking care to avoid damaging the skin. Record infestation levels to track progress.
Second, maintain water quality by performing regular water changes, filtering out debris, and controlling temperature within the optimal range for eel health (typically 20‑24 °C). Clean tanks, pipes, and equipment with a dilute bleach solution (1 % sodium hypochlorite) followed by thorough rinsing to eliminate residual eggs.
Third, apply approved acaricides designed for aquatic use. Options include:
- Copper sulfate – 0.5 mg L⁻¹ for a 24‑hour exposure, then flush the system.
- Formalin – 25 ppm for 30 minutes, followed by a water exchange.
- Hydrogen peroxide – 2 mg L⁻¹ applied daily for three days.
Follow manufacturer dosage guidelines precisely and monitor eel behavior for adverse reactions.
Fourth, introduce biological control agents where feasible. Certain strains of Bacillus thuringiensis produce toxins that reduce tick larvae in water without harming fish. Apply the product according to label instructions, typically 10 ml m⁻³ of water.
Fifth, modify the environment to discourage tick development. Remove excess vegetation and organic matter that serve as breeding sites. Install UV sterilizers to reduce free‑living stages of the parasite. Ensure that any new stock undergoes quarantine and inspection before integration.
Finally, implement a monitoring schedule: weekly visual checks, monthly water quality tests, and quarterly reviews of treatment efficacy. Adjust protocols based on observed tick counts and eel health indicators. Consistent application of these measures will keep tick populations at a minimal level and protect eel welfare.