The standard dosage should be appropriately increased when the water temperature is below 15°C, as most medications become significantly less effective below 13°C. Conversely, when medicating Tosai(yearling koi), the standard dosage should be appropriately reduced due to their lower tolerance. Naturally, the dosage may also need to be increased if the disease is particularly severe.
Detailed Guidelines for Adjustment:
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Temperature Adjustment: For every 5°C drop below 20°C, consider increasing the dosage by about 10-20% to compensate for reduced metabolic activity and chemical reactivity, but never exceed the maximum safe limit stated on the product label.
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Age & Size Consideration: For Tosaior very small koi, reducing the standard dose by 20-30% is a common practice to avoid toxicity. Always observe fish closely for signs of stress after application.
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Disease Severity: In advanced or systemic infections, a higher initial dose (within safe limits) may be necessary to achieve therapeutic concentrations quickly. However, this should ideally be guided by veterinary advice.
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Water Quality Factors: High organic load (DOC), hard water, or high pH can bind or inactivate certain medications, potentially requiring a dosage increase. Conversely, very soft water might increase potency, necessitating caution.Always prioritize accurate diagnosis and consider these factors holistically. When in doubt, start with a lower dose and monitor response before proceeding.
