Flagellates are very small protozoa that can infect both the surface and the inside of the fish. They move with the help of one or more flagella. They are therefore also called flagellates. Flagellates can be easily identified under a microscope with a magnification of 200 to 400 times by the jerky movement that is typical of this. Distinguishing the various flagellates from one another requires still higher magnifications and a great deal of experience in observing appearance and locomotion.
Flagellates can easily be mistaken for sperm and ciliates under the microscope by the inexperienced. Rotifers feeding on a string of feces also look similar.
Flagellates are partially specialized on certain fish species. They can severely infest and damage a particular species of fish while not infesting other species in the same aquarium.
Flagellates are found almost everywhere. In the water, on the fish, in the intestines, other internal organs and in the blood of fish. If flagellates are present, the affected fish need not necessarily be parasitized by them, because not all flagellates cause diseases. The flagellates feed on bacteria and sludge, sometimes also on fish excrement. Some species can digest cellulose.
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The different forms of flagellates
The following list does not claim to be complete. Currently only flagellates are listed that are or will be treated on this website. The list should make it easier to classify the flagellates and help with further research.