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Tumors are caused by a variety of environmental factors, such as chemical pollution, and perhaps by certain viral infections. Some tumors may be inherited from the parent fish. Lymphocystis is caused by a viral infection. |
General swelling
Unusual growths or swelling and on any part of the body
Raspberry or cauliflower like growths on the skin and fins
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Tumors are unusual growths or swelling and may occur in any part of the body. Those on the skin and fins are usually quite obvious, although similar growths may occur among the internal organs, sometimes causing firm, noticeable swellings to the general body shape.
Lymphocystis causes raspberry- or cauliflower-like growths on the skin and fins. It often begins as small, white 'cysts', which gradually increases in size over a period of weeks or months.
The tumors of fish are rarely very infectious, and, in many instances, the factors responsible for their occurrences are poorly understood.
Fish suffering from lymphocystis may transmit the disease to other fish via abrasions of the skin. Infection can remain dormant and undetected for some time. Although most often a disease of marine and brackish-water fish, it may also occur in freshwater species. It is rarely fatal, being unsightly rather than highly pathogenic.
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