Dips to Remove Ectoparasites

Dips are useful to remove some ectoparasites, especially when moving fish from one location to another. Regardless of whether they are used for freshwater or marine fish, pH and temperature of the dip water should be the same as the tank water.

Freshwater fish are usually exposed to a 30 g/L dip for 0.5–10 min, depending on species.

Less information is available on lowering salinity for marine fish; however, freshwater dips ranging from 0–4 g/L have been used.

If fish show signs of distress, commonly manifested by rolling on their side, they should be immediately removed from the bath.

Use caution when working with a new species.