why has my golden orfe got a curved spine?

Question

i bought 10 golden orfe only 5 are left bought them at 1 1/2 inches long its now 5 inches and has developed a curve in its spine any ideas

its in a 8ft by 5ft by 2 ft deep pond with 2 air curtains they have recently been treated for parasite

Answer 1

Golden orfe are actually prone to a number of spinal deformities, including a disease similar to scolliosis. GEnerally this is caused by over breeding. Many fish breeders breed within a small group of stud fish, who are completely genetically pure orfe. This breeding may mean fish coming from the same parents breed together, increasing the risk of genetic malfunction and errors.
This problem seems to occur more in fish bred outside the Japanese traditional breeders. Outside of Japan, the number of pure bred fish is fewer than in Japan and so the gene pool is smaller.
The fish will not be affected in terms of their life in the pond, but if the curvature is particularly bad, or if the fish struggles to swim or keep it's gills under water then it may be better to humanely put it out of it's misery. You wouldn't want to see a fish suffer for the sake of it. One fish in my own pond has had a similar problem for 2 years now and seems to be OK. If possible buy fish directly from Japan, where most fish are pure genetically. They will be more expensive in terms of import charges and any handling charge dependant on which country you live in. Some countries require a licence to import quantities of fish over a certain amount, and you may also have to prove what you are to do with the fish (show, private collections, exhibits or domestic use). They will be expensive but you will recoup the money in terms of the fishes quality of life. Otherwise if this would be too expensive, then try to go direct to a local breeder or a speciallist aquatic dealer. Then you can not only see the fish closely, but get speciallist advice on their breeding stock and background. Some breeders also exhibit the parent fish.
Other problems may include carcinogenic chemicals and pollutants which may have escaped into your pond. If this is the case a water speciallist is needed for testing and for treatment.

Answer 2

Golden Orfe For Sale

Answer 3

It probably always had this but only as it grew got more noticable. As long as fish seems active, feeding and healthy enough would not worry.
However, would agree with other person's answer regarding checking your water quality as Orfes can be sensitive.

Answer 4

I could be wrong, but I think one of the syptoms of fish TB is a curved spine.

You sure it wasn't born like this? What are your water parameters (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH)? How big of a tank are they in? Is the tank filtered and aerated?

Answer 5

its because they lived before you bought them in a crowded environment. dont worry tho as it has no effect on the fish.

Answer 6

its the hunch fish of notra pond