HITH not water quality

[cartersvillealex]

I have an outbreak of HITH in my mixed SA cichlid tank, but the water quality is good. pH 7.0, 0 ammonia and nitrites, less than 20ppm nitrates, etc. I got some new chocolate cichlids and now the whole tank has HITH. Is there a possible pathogen causing this? I have always assumed HITH was caused by either nutrition or water quality, but I am sure that this is neither, they all eat Hikari pellets, which I have used to years with no problems. Any ideas, or ideas on what to treat with?

 

[johnptc]

HITH is usually associated with the presence of Hexamita and/or Spironuclus bacteria

 

[K C]

Hi Alex,

As for your chocolates, the parasites responsible for HITH may have been present in their gut before you acquired them and has now progressed to the current stage.

The treatment of choice is metronidazole.

http://www.flippersandfins.net/HITHarticle2.htm

 

[frnchjeep]

I'm not sure how, but I've heard that stray electrical voltage in the tank will cause HITH. Do any of your heaters look damp or foggy on the inside? Do you have a ground probe in the tank? Might be something to look into.

 

[cartersvillealex]

Thanks guys, I will try some metro. Even if the pits dont get better, if they stop progressing I will be happy.