How to prevent and treat ciliate disease (Zoothamnium infection) in crabs

Symptoms of ciliate disease in crabs

Because the pond water is overly fertile and the water quality is poor, ciliates (Zoothamnium) multiply in large numbers and parasitize the crab body. Sick crabs have more filth on their shells, and their vitality and appetite gradually weaken. In severe cases, most die before dawn. Careful microscopic examination reveals that the forehead, walking legs, shell and gills of sick crabs are covered with ciliates.

Prevention and treatment methods for ciliate disease in crabs

Soak the sick crabs in a mixture of 5-10 mg/kg potassium permanganate and 0.5-1 mg/kg benzalkonium bromide; splash a 0.2-0.3 mg/kg malachite green solution around the pond banks, aquatic plants and other areas where river crabs are concentrated.