Emily Tucker, Jamie Gerlach, Azais Curtean, Kent Passingham, Lisa Murphy, Gregory Lewbart
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background: Copper is frequently used as an algicide, and copper ion generators such as the Aquascape IonGen claim to be safe for use in systems containing fish. In 2012, a die-off of koi (Cyprinus carpio) in a pond in Raleigh, North Carolina, occurred after the IonGen was added to the system.
Methods: Physical and postmortem examinations suggested that heavy metal toxicity was the likely cause of morbidity and mortality. This was supported by a heavy metal screening of the owners' pond. Additional experiments were performed to determine if the IonGen produced toxic levels of copper and zinc.
Results: The tank containing the IonGen had higher concentrations of copper and zinc, and copper levels exceeded those associated with toxicity in both hard and soft water.
Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that ion generators might not be safe for fish, and copper should only be used as an algicide if concentrations are closely monitored.
期刊介绍:
Veterinary Record Open is a journal dedicated to publishing specialist veterinary research across a range of topic areas including those of a more niche and specialist nature to that considered in the weekly Vet Record. Research from all disciplines of veterinary interest will be considered. It is an Open Access journal of the British Veterinary Association.