Clinical Protocol

Parasite Protocol

Eliminating common pests without harming coral.

Black Ich Treatment on Mimic Tang

Verified Quarantine Protocol: We use these exact methods at our Warner Robins facility before any utility fish enters our coral grow-out systems.

Even the healthiest reef tanks can carry parasites. This guide covers safely treating Black Ich, Flukes, and Internal Worms using proven reef-safe methods.

1. Identify the Invader

Black Ich

Paravortex spp. Tiny dark specks (salt & pepper). Causes flashing. Common on Tangs.

Flukes

Monogeneans. Translucent. Look for cloudy eyes, frayed fins, or "yawning".

Internal Worms

Nematodes. White stringy poop, pinched stomach, or bloating.

Quick Check: A 5-minute freshwater dip can confirm flukes. If small, opaque disc-shaped parasites fall off into the water, it's flukes.

2. Case Study: Mimic Tang

Tang with Black Ich Spots
Day 0: Infection
Tang Fully Healed
Day 14: Cleared

3. Dosage Calculator

The most common mistake with PraziPro is overdosing by treating the tank's rated volume rather than the actual water volume.

Dose Amount 0 ml

4. The Protocol

Phase 1: The First Strike (Day 1)

  • Remove Media: Carbon, GFO, and Purigen must be removed.
  • Turn Off UV: UV light degrades the medication immediately.
  • Skimmer Cup Off: Leave the skimmer running for oxygen, but remove the cup. It will overflow.
  • Surface Agitation: Aim powerheads up. PraziPro reduces oxygen levels.
  • Dose: Add the calculated amount to a high-flow area.

Phase 2: The Gap (Days 2-6)

Leave the system alone. Do not perform water changes unless ammonia rises. Observe fish for heavy breathing.

Internal Parasite Note: For internal worms (white poop), dosing the water is often not enough. You must soak their food.

Recipe: 1 tbsp frozen food + 1 scoop General Cure + 1 scoop Focus (binder). Feed daily for 14 days.

Phase 3: The Second Strike (Day 7)

Timing is critical. At 78°F, fluke eggs hatch in about 4-5 days. We must hit them before they mature and lay new eggs.

  • Water Change: Perform a 25% water change.
  • Redose: Add the full dose of PraziPro again.
  • Wait: Wait another 6 days (until Day 13).

Phase 4: Cleanup (Day 14)

Perform a large water change, turn UV back on, and run fresh Carbon to remove the medication.

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