Just when you thought your koi pond was a serene oasis, along comes a parade of microscopic miscreants. Yes, we're talking about koi parasites — those tiny invaders that treat your fish like an all-you-can-eat buffet. But fear not! With the right spring and fall treatments, you can keep these pests in check and ensure your koi stay happy, healthy, and free of freeloaders.

Know Your Koi Enemy

Common koi parasites like flukes, costia, and ich can wreak havoc if left unchecked. Symptoms include flashing (rubbing against surfaces), clamped fins, excess mucus, or visible spots on your koi. Identifying these signs early is crucial.

The Dynamic Duo: Terminate & Praziquantel

When it comes to evicting koi parasites, the winning combination is Terminate by AquaMeds and Praziquantel. These two treatments team up like superhero sidekicks, each targeting specific troublemakers to ensure no parasite is left behind.

Terminate is your go-to for tackling common external parasites like ich, costia, and chilodonella. It's fast-acting and effective, making it ideal for spring and fall treatments.

Praziquantel is the specialist for flukes — stubborn little parasites that hitch a ride on your koi like tourists overstaying their welcome. Using Praziquantel in tandem with Terminate during the final Terminate application on day 3 helps ensure your pond's pest control plan is airtight.

Timing is Everything

The best times for parasite prevention are in spring and fall — seasons when koi are more vulnerable due to temperature changes and weakened immune systems. By proactively treating your pond during these periods, you reduce the risk of outbreaks before they become major problems.

The Importance of Accurate Pond Size

Before you start pouring treatments into your pond like a mad scientist, take a deep breath! Determining your pond's exact volume is crucial for effective and safe treatment. Too little product won’t kill the parasites, while too much can harm your fish.

If you haven't calculated your pond size yet, check out our handy guide on the Kloubec Koi Farm website: Calculating Koi Pond Water Volume. Remember, Mother Nature might keep you guessing, but proper math can keep her antics in check.

Important Note About Salt and Terminate

Do not apply Terminate if there is salt present in your pond water. Salt can cause a chemical reaction with Terminate, reducing its effectiveness and potentially harming your koi. Always perform a water change to reduce or remove salt before starting Terminate treatments.

Step-by-Step Treatment Plan

Always read and follow manufacturer’s label directions for safe and effect treatments.

Calculate Your Pond Size. Don’t guess! Use your pond's dimensions to calculate volume accurately. Prepare Your Treatment. Follow label instructions carefully for both Terminate and Praziquantel. Turn Off UV Clarifiers. UV light can neutralize Terminate before it works its magic. Distribute Evenly. Walk around your pond and pour the treatment evenly for full coverage. Observe Your Koi. Keep a close eye on your fish for any signs of stress and ensure your filtration system is running smoothly. Keep your aeration pump running at all times during treatment. Oxygen deprivation can be harmful to your koi, especially during active treatments.

Manufacturer's Directions by AquaMeds: Using TERMINATE with Aqua Prazi

Day 1:

• Water Change: Perform a 25% water change.
• Dosage: Add 100 mL of TERMINATE per 1,000 gallons of pond water.
• Aeration: Increase aeration and circulation, if possible.

Day 2 (24 Hours Later):

• Water Change: Perform another 25% water change.
• Dosage: Add 100 mL of TERMINATE per 1,000 gallons of pond water.
• Aeration: Continue to increase aeration and circulation, if possible.

Day 3 (24 Hours Later):

• Water Change: No water change required.
• Preparation: In a clean container, mix:
  • 100 mL of TERMINATE per 1,000 gallons of pond water
  • 10 grams of Aqua Prazi per 1,000 gallons of pond water
• Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes, then mix it vigorously again.
• Application: Pour the mixture around the bottom edge of the pond where most of the fish are located, ensuring it circulates freely throughout the pond.
• Aeration: Continue to increase aeration and circulation, if possible.

Post-Treatment (After Day 3):

• Water Change: Do not change any water in the pond for at least 5 days after the final treatment.
• Pond Maintenance: After 5 days, resume your normal pond maintenance schedule.
• Storage: Store any remaining TERMINATE and Aqua Prazi in a safe place at a temperature above 50°F.

Note: Using both TERMINATE and Aqua Prazi together kills most types of parasites found in fish ponds. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Aqua Meds for support.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can effectively manage and prevent parasitic infestations in your koi pond, ensuring a healthy environment for your fish.

FAQ

How can I tell if my koi have parasites?
Watch for flashing, clamped fins, or excess mucus. If unsure, a skin scrape under a microscope can confirm parasites.

Can I treat my pond even if I don’t see symptoms?
Yes! Preventative treatments in spring and fall help minimize outbreaks before they start.

Can I just treat my pond once a year?
Treating only once a year leaves your koi vulnerable during key seasonal shifts. Spring and fall treatments are the best strategy for year-round protection.

What if I don’t know my pond size?
Don’t guess! Miscalculations can be dangerous. Use our pond size guide: Calculating Koi Pond Water Volume.

Can I use Terminate and Praziquantel together?
Yes! In fact, combining them is recommended for maximum effectiveness during the final Terminate application on day 3.

How soon can I feed my koi after treatment?
Typically, you can resume feeding within 24 hours, but always follow the product instructions.