help, can anyone help me, two of my goldfish have now died the same way, the scales seem to have been eaten and then they have been eaten throuh the flesh into there stomach, there is a hole into the fishes gut the size of my finger, the pond is out doors, any ideas

thanks

mick

Sounds like ulcer disease.
For us to move forward with a suitable treatment could you answer as many questions as you can from the box at the top, thanks

Test Results for the Following:
Ammonia Level? okNitrite Level? okNitrate level? okPh Level, (If possible,KH and GH and chloramines)? okPh Level out of the Tap? neutralTank size (How many Gals) and How long has it been running? 5000gals 2yrWhat is the name and size of the filter/s? not sure make but its a large one with filers and balls insideHow often do you change the water and how much? top up as required
How many fish in the tank and their size? were 10 - now 8What kind of water additives or conditioners? algeacide - water clarifierAny medications added to the tank? noAdd any new fish to the tank? 4 months ago - these seem fineWhat do you feed your fish? pellets
Any unusual findings on the fish such as "grains of salt", not that i have seen, only the scales seem to be dissapearingbloody streaks, frayed fins or fungus? not that i have seen
Any unusual behavior like staying
at the bottom, not eating, ect..? no, even though the scale loss, eaten away flesh, they all eat fine and are quite active

Just for people posting as well, need to point out you are from england.

As the pond is big enough, room isnt an issue. We really need to see the stats you have for your tests.

It may be that the fish you introduced have brought something in as theya rent affected. Did you quarantine at all?
In 2 years not doing any water changes is a problem as well. These fish are living in an enclosed environment and you need to see it as a large aquarium.
You need to do water changes, even just twice a year of about 30%. Im not a pond person maybe someone can give you more advise on that.

Any chance of you getting a close up pic of an affected fish? You can use photobucket.com to host your pics.
If indeed it is a form of ulcer then bacteria is rife in your pond and you need to do an immediate water change and then you will need meds to try and ease it which isnt easy in the uk.

How often do you clean your filter out and how do you do it?

welcome to the forum by the way