Mudpuppy Fungal Infection

[nathanael]

I have a Mudpuppy that I think has a fungal infection. Its skin has a kind of whitish stuff all over. I've read that a salt bath works. Should I totally submerse the salamander during this, and how much salt do I need and for how long? Thanks!

 

[cameron]

Do you have a picture. I think it could be molting. Is it covering the entire body.

 

[jennifer]

This should help:
http://www.caudata.org/cc/articles/salt.shtml
Yes, you do totally submerse the salamander during this. Also, try to lower its water temperature as much as possible. There is also an article on that:
http://www.caudata.org/cc/articles/cooling.shtml

 

[ryan]

Are the patches almost like a shiny bluish color? Mine has those on its tail. I don't think its harmful though because he just ate (like 30 minutes ago) and I doubt he would if he was stressed by an illness. So if it is what I decribed I guess you shouldn't worry but a pic could help. Oh and is the whitish stuff have a fuzzy look?

 

[nathanael]

That's what's really weird. The stuff on his body does not look "fuzzy" but kind of slimy. Also, on its leg it is red and looks like it might be infected. It is eating voraciously however and is very active. Sorry I can't have a photo of it. The stuff isn't covering its body entirely but mostly is on its lower part, especially on its tail.

 

[ryan]

Where did you get the mudpuppy? If it was from Carolina or Nasco Biological it probably is a fungal infection, I have heard quite some bad things from people who got them from those places. Thats why I got mine from Wards Biological. Also if he is eating that is a good sign beause i he was in great harm I don't think he would eat let alone move.

(Message edited by i_love_necturus on March 04, 2007)

 

[nathanael]

I got him 3 years ago at That Fish Place in PA (great pet store, I really miss it since we moved). Up till now he's been in great shape.

 

[ryan]

I guess you should do the salt bath.

 

[ryan]

How is the mudpuppy?