*Marine Ich, Cryptocaryon irritans, is a common fish disease caused by an external parasite. Once a fish is infected, small white cysts on the skin, fins and inside of the gills may be visible. The infected fish may breathe rapidly or quickly rub its body on objects in your tank.
Marine Ich preys upon fish by burrowing into the flesh and gills and can cause extensive damage. It can quickly turn lethal when the parasite clogs the fish's gills, preventing respiration. This parasite is difficult to treat inside an aquarium because it goes through several different life cycles. Repeat infections are common. With a little understanding of Marine Ich's life cycle, it will be much easier to effectively treat and rid your aquarium of this parasite.
The life cycle of Marine Ich consists of four unique stages in which the parasite takes on five different forms:
Trophont
Protomont
Tomont
Tomite
Theront
During each stage the parasite performs a different function that helps ensure the parasite's survival.
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