Glossary

osmotic shock

Rupture of cells in a solution as a result of a sudden reduction in osmotic pressure. Can cause severe issues in fishes when the chemical composition of the water changes rapidly, e.g., during or following a pH crash.

Related terms

pH crash
Sudden and rapid drop in pH, usually occurring in aquaria or ponds with poor buffering capacity. Can be fatal to fishes.
reduction
Chemical process whereby an atom or ion gains electrons and undergoes a subsequent increase in valence; the act or process of being reduced. Opposite of oxidation.
salt bath
Treatment against various parasites which involves placing a freshwater fish in a solution of saline water with the salt concentration and period of exposure variable depending on the size of the fish and severity of infection. Similar to a salt dip in that parasites are killed via osmotic shock, but of longer duration.
salt dip
Treatment against various parasites which involves briefly placing a freshwater fish in a solution of saline water with the salt concentration depending on the size of the fish and severity of infection. Similar to a salt bath in that parasites are killed via osmotic shock, but of much shorter duration.

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