IndicationsFreshwater CopperSafe is indicated for treatment of ick (ichthyophthirius), trichodina, flukes (gyrodactylus), anchor worm, and other freshwater parasites.
Administration and Dosage
For Freshwater CopperSafe, it is not necessary to adjust pH, temperature, or to make water changes if readings are in the ideal range. Use of a hospital tank is recommended. If an activated carbon filter is over five days old, it may be left in place. However, fresh activated carbon may reduce the activity of medication and should be removed. Maintain temperature and air supply.
Freshwater CopperSafe is provided in a concentration so that one teaspoon treats four gallons or one fluid ounce treats 25 gallons. CopperSafe remains active for over one month in the aquarium. Be sure to add CopperSafe to replacement water, when water changes are made. This will maintain a therapeutic level of CopperSafe.
Copper levels are commonly measured as free or as total copper. CopperSafe's unique formulation maintains a total copper level of 1.5 ppm to 2.0 ppm when used as directed. Copper test kits made by Hach Company will help to accurately monitor total copper levels when using CopperSafe.
How To Remove CopperSafe
Because CopperSafe is so stable in water, water changes are the quickest way to remove it from the aquarium. The use of fresh activated carbon will aid in the removal of CopperSafe. CopperSafe does not settle out in the gravel of aquariums.
Precautions
CopperSafe may cause an adverse reaction with some sensitive invertebrates. Invertebrates without an exoskeleton such as jellyfish, anemones, etc. should be removed before treatment. CopperSafe may be harmful to plants, amphibians, and snails. Any sudden change in aquarium conditions can be hazardous. Make changes gradually. For aquarium use only. Do not overdose. Keep out of reach of children. This product is intended for the exclusive use with ornamental fish and/or other ornamental organisms and is not intended for use with fish for human consumption.
Freshwater Parasites Controlled by CopperSafe
Ichthyophthirius (Ick): White spot disease is caused by a protozoan that attacks all freshwater and saltwater species of fish. The fish appears to be covered with numerous white spots. The protozoan is easily transmitted from one fish to another, Ick can only be controlled in the free-swimming stage of the parasite. Five to 30 days may be needed before the infestation is completely eradicated.
Chilodinella: An external parasite causing the fish to secrete mucus, resulting in the appearance of a bluish-white film on the body of the fish. In severe conditions, the skin peels off, gills are damaged, and the fish dies. Gills are usually attacked first and symptoms of oxygen starvation are noted.
Trichodina: An external parasite most commonly found in freshwater fish, causing cloudiness on the skin, and red areas where hemorrhages have occurred due to the teeth of the parasite.
Gyrodactylus: An external parasite that affects the skin of the flesh. Colors fade, fins droop, fold and gradually become torn. Fish become sluggish and weak.
Velvet/Gold Dust Disease: An external parasite that affects the skin and gills of the fish. Fish suffering from this disease may look as though they have been sprinkled with gold dust. It can be successfully treated in the free swimming stage of the parasite.
Biological Filtration Not Affected By Mardel Products
Nitrobacter and Nitrosomonas are recognized as the primary beneficial bacteria present in the biological filtration system of every aquarium. Some drugs which treat fish diseases and parasitic infestations are harmful to these "good" bacteria. When the biological filter is upset, there is a buildup of ammonia and nitrite concentrations resulting in fish distress and death. Mardel products have been tested with known strains of these bacteria with no adverse effects noted. When used as directed, they do not interfere with the biological filter.
Special Notes On Diagnosis
Diagnosis of parasitic infestations and bacterial infections in freshwater fish is very difficult for even the most advanced aquarist. While no drug is 100% effective, the aquarist should not hesitate to try the other freshwater Mardel products as shown on the Fish Disease Chart (supplied with product instructions) if the product you are using does not give you the results you desire.
What appears to be the same disease on different fish, or on the same fish on two different days, may not be the same affliction. Antibiotics can be effective against one and not the other. Try the complementary Mardel products when results are not satisfactory with just one drug. Remember, even parasite infestations are sometimes mistaken for bacterial infections. For that reason, concurrent use of Freshwater CopperSafe is recommended. Whenever treating for parasites, always use one of the Mardel antibiotics to prevent secondary infection.
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