Head and Lateral Line Erosion

This unusual condition shows symptoms of erosion of the skin around the head and along the lateral line. The affected areas lose colour and appear depressed.

A similar condition, called hole-in-the-head disease, is caused by a parasite known as Hexamita, and may be accompanied by excess mucus around the affected area.

Both conditions are caused by a combination of pathogens but it is more often than not a poor diet that causes the conditions to occur. Treatment is difficult and should start with a change of diet to a more varied and vitamin rich content. Cichlids, and discus in particular are prone to the problem.