Is HIH Contagious?

[ajrsygrl]

Hi Everyone...

I have been reading alot about it but no where did I see it was contagious.
If I add my new little Oscar with HIH to a new tank will he infect the tank. He is currently in a Qtank (10g) and has been medicated since I got him a week ago.

I want to get my new 125g tank up and running (its cycling) and I want to get little Oscar in tank before big Oscar to hopefully avoid territory issues.

I just cant keep up with 4 tanks, its driving me nuts! Luckily they are all in the same room but I am overwhelmed. Kitchen is other side of house and water changes are a huge PITA!!!

Also my big Oscar has fungus... I have been medicating for 2 weeks. I dont see it anymore, does that mean its gone? Is he safe to go in new tank? I want to get him out of his 50g.

I appreciate all your help!! Thank you!!
T

[scott-kim]

From what Ive read its not contagious but Ive also read that scientists cant agree what has caused this. I have seen a Oscar with severe HITH kept with a healthy Oscar for over a year and the healthy one never got it.
Is your veiled oscar 12" including the massive tail? Ive never seen one like yours.

[Lupin]

Any pictures of your oscar? HITH is not contagious. Use Flagyl to treat for it.

[Star_Rider]

There is debate as to whether HITH is contagious.
much has been done in studies nothing is conclusive.
the debates is to the cause which has poinrted to a deficiency in the diet. to flagellated Protazoans.. the debate is like which came first the chicken or the egg.

but..usually clean water and a balanced diet should stop the spread.
qt the oscar until it has healed.
keep an eye in it for a few more weeks..if there is no sign of return you can mocve it to the main tank.

I would qt regardfess of the HITH. I also suggest treating for parasites as a precaution. this treatment itself wil take 4-6 weeks.