Fish in transit frequently incur physical damage as a result of capture and handling procedures. This damage, combined with the resultant stress from deteriorating water conditions, will predispose fishes and invertebrates to the infectious disease process. Though such physical damage and physiological problems are difficult to eliminate, it is important to reduce the chances of the development of harmful diseases. PolyAqua has been formulated to reduce the possibility of disease outbreak by providing the following benefits:
- A synthetic slime coating for damaged tissue.
PolyAqua provides a barrier against loss of internal fluids, electrolytes and potentially toxic substances. The synthetic polymeric slime coating is only activated in the presence of protein, such as damaged areas. A 'bandaging effect" occurs as the synthetic slime coat forms rapidly over the damaged areas. The exact mechanism of the synthetic slime coat formation is unclear. However, an increase in viscosity and cross-linking among the polymer/colloids occurs when they come into contact with the protein. As the fish regenerates its own mucus layer, the synthetic film is sloughed off and is biodegraded. The protective action of the slime coat, which forms faster than one laid down by NovAqua, reduces the possibility of infection by bacteria and external parasites. When used with antibacterials and other medications, their activity is concentrated at the diseased or damaged site.
- Contains Vitamin B12 which aids in the healing of damaged tissue.
The use of vitamin B12 by commercial fish hatcheries has indicated that its inclusion aids the normal healing process.
- Detoxification of heavy metal ions.
PolyAqua detoxifies heavy metal ions such as copper, lead, zinc, etc., which, in low concentrations, are harmful to aquatic animals. PolyAqua precipitates the metal ions, including copper ions, from solution into harmless compounds forming a unique, polymeric salt. This salt is stable under both high and low pH conditions, in contrast to many chelates which are pH dependent, unstable, and can release their "bound up" metal ions back into solution. PolyAqua is capable of precipitating free copper ions but reacts slowly with chelated copper solutions.
- Reduces stress and increases survival rates.
The overall action of PolyAqua aids in the reduction of stress and increases the survival rates of aquatic animals.
