Ichthyophthirius multifiliis 

– All the fish, this one has the most parasites. "Ich" or "white spot"
is the common name for this parasite and disease. The term "parasite" refers to a mature
parasite that is around 1 mm in diameter and typically appears as coalescing white patches on
the skin or in the gills.

Types and kinds

Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ich) is a common, ciliated protozoan parasite that can cause
catastrophic losses in aquaculture facilities and display aquariums.
The trophont or mature stage of the parasite has a large "horseshoe" shaped nucleus, and the
entire surface of the parasite is covered in cilia.

 Charteristics
The Charteristics of Ichthyophthirius multifiliis with a round or ovoid body, small mouth and
longitudinal rows of cilia on the body surface, converging at the anterior end.
The transort and handling can cause newly arrived fish who may be asymptomatic carriers
(those with no obvious clinical signs) to break with active disease, serving as a source of
infection for other fish.
Cause and effect
is usually caused by poor water quality, overcrowded aquaria, or when a sudden temperature
change occurs.
Prevention
Prevention is always preferable to treating Ich (or any disease) after an outbreak is in progress.
In introduction of this parasite is one of the most important reasons all incoming fish should be
quarantined. Transport and handling can cause newly arrived fish who may be asymptomatic
carriers (those with no obvious clinical signs) to break with active disease.