PondCare® Dimilin

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use PondCare MelaFix at the same time I'm using Dimilin?

MelaFix can be used anytime during the Dimilin treatment. We recommend treating with MelaFix for seven days to heal damaged skin and prevent secondary infections.

Can I give my fish a "salt bath" or use pond salt in the pond while using Dimilin?

 Yes, but be careful. Salt baths for fish with anchor worms should be in a tub that is not used for other fish. When using the same tub for a salt bath for more than one fish, be sure to clean it completely, as anchor worms spread very easily.

Will Dimilin change the color of my pond water?

No. You can use Dimilin without change to your water color or clarity.

Can Dimilin be used with tropical fish?

Yes. Dimilin is formulated for use with ornamental fish, including koi, goldfish, comets, shubunkins, fantails, carp, fresh and saltwater tropical ornamental fish, cold water aquarium fish, shiners, and minnows.

What are anchor worms and how do I know if I have them?

The most common symptom is the female worm embedded in the side of the fish. The anchor worm appears as a gray or black strand up to one inch (2.5 cm) in length. Algae can collect on the worm, giving it a green appearance and the point of entry may develop a red ulcer, due to secondary bacterial infections. You may also see two egg sacs hanging from the worm.

Eggs are released into the water, where they hatch into microscopic free-swimming copepods. The copepods feed on the fish mucus, but do not damage the fish. After mating, the female parasite then penetrates into the fish and anchors itself under the skin. The anchor can go so deep as to penetrate organs in smaller fish.

The female worms then develop two large egg sacs that can contain up to 700 eggs. Once the eggs hatch, the free-swimming parasites re-infest the fish. The parasite's life cycle is temperature dependent and can take as little as 15 days when the water is 86°F (30°C). Anchor worm infestations are most common on koi and goldfish.

How long will the anchor worms remain on the fish?

The female anchor worm will remain on the fish even though it is dead. The worm will disintegrate and fall off of the fish in time. There is no need to pull the worms off of the fish. This tends to rip the "anchor" out of the flesh and increase the chances of secondary infections.

PondCare® Dimilin

For the control of anchor worm (Lernaea) in ornamental ponds, water gardens, Koi ponds and display tanks containing fish including koi, goldfish and tropical ornamental fish.
Effectively controls anchor worm by interrupting the parasite's life cycle and reproductive processes.
Easy to use liquid will not discolor the water and can be used at any water temperature in ornamental ponds, water gardens and display tanks

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