Electrocution?

[lypope]

My house was struck by lightning last year with several fish effected, even though I don't have anything electrical in the pond. There were three koi who must have been close to the side of the pond nearest the buried cable line, which is the most likely suspect since the cable was fried both at the house and the pole. Those koi swam awkwardly and wouldn't come to the top to feed. I soaked food in OJ and dropped it to the bottom for at least a month, which they ate with enthusiasm. They all recovered for the most part although two of them still are "awkward" when turning in the pond.

[rockman]

Brett,

I can not rule out H2S poisoning, but I did not notice any smell, and a few of the fish appear quite unaffected.

From what I have read from others, the symptoms appear to be consistent with electrocution. None of the fish died, but as I have been posting, several of them are swimming quite erratic.

I am wondering whether I should cull out the "good" fish, and put them in a seaprate tank (I have a 6 foot show tank I could set up)? I have been adivsed to do nothing for now, just monitor (but in the meantime, I am adding more salt, doing more water changing).

This has been a very tough lesson for me

[rockman]

Quote: Originally Posted by lypope My house was struck by lightning last year with several fish effected, even though I don't have anything electrical in the pond. There were three koi who must have been close to the side of the pond nearest the buried cable line, which is the most likely suspect since the cable was fried both at the house and the pole. Those koi swam awkwardly and wouldn't come to the top to feed. I soaked food in OJ and dropped it to the bottom for at least a month, which they ate with enthusiasm. They all recovered for the most part although two of them still are "awkward" when turning in the pond.

Lynda,

Thanks for your post, gives me some encouragement. I might try out the OJ soaked food!

-Rockman

[MikeM]

Other than verifying there is no stray voltage, I would do nothing except maintain water quality.