Which disease is also known as "New Tank Syndrome"?

New Tank Syndrome refers to a condition often observed in newly established aquariums, primarily associated with nitrite toxicity. This phenomenon occurs when beneficial bacteria necessary for the nitrogen cycle are not yet established or the tank has not properly cycled. In a newly set-up aquarium, fish may be subjected to elevated levels of nitrite due to a lack of adequate biological filtration. Nitrites can be extremely harmful to fish, impairing their ability to carry oxygen in the blood, leading to symptoms such as lethargy, gasping at the surface, and potential mortality.

In contrast, Koi herpes virus primarily affects koi and has specific clinical signs not related to water quality issues typical of a newly cycled tank. Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, commonly known as "ich," is a protozoan parasite that causes a different set of symptoms often related to stress and non-appropriate environmental conditions rather than being a direct result of new tank conditions. Mycobacterium infections relate to chronic, often systemic diseases that manifest over time, typically not associated with immediate tank setup issues. Understanding the nature of New Tank Syndrome helps in recognizing the importance of establishing a nitrogen cycle in aquatic systems to prevent further complications associated with nitrite toxicity.