Thinking of buying a microscope, thoughts?

[philipraposo1982]

So with no vets in my area doing any fish medicine I thought about purchasing a scope to.be able to help with diagnosis.

Anyone attempt this?

Is this something someone can learn?

Any idea of what type of scope is required? What else do I need?

Any help would be great.

 

[MrsE88]

It's a great idea. I too want to get a scope at some point. And yes anyone willing to learn can use one to help Id parasites.

I don't see it talked about here, but on another forum for koi scopes are used frequently to id issues. Members can then post pictures or videos for help from those with more experience.

 

[Boomer1224]

I really think its a great idea

 

[skjl47]

Hello; As far as what you need there are two general types. One is a true microscope with magnification power from around 100 to as much as 1000 (with oil immersion lense) These are capable of getting an image down to the bacterial size. Please check for more current information as my actual experience is over a decade old.
These type scopes are necessary for some types of viewing but my guess is will be somewhat limited for your purpose. If you have a bacterial infection these type can get you to the shape of a bacterium. The shape can help to identify.
I think you will also want to at least be able to check for gram positive and gram negative which is done with stains.

It may be that the stereo scopes with less magnification power might be of more practical use. Best I can recall is they range in power under 100. I think more in the10 to 40 power range. For many things I used these lower power scopes and likely used them a bit more often.

Not sure what scopes cost now days, but likely is a case of you get what you are willing to pay for. May I suggest an option? You can get scopes that allow the use of a small camera to be attached. That way you can both look with you eye and have an image on a TV screen.

Good luck