When managing fish patients, it is essential to consider not only the fish themselves but the entire aquarium system, including the water, air, filtration components, and other life forms within the environment. A thorough history should include a detailed assessment of the system, with particular emphasis on the life support components and water quality parameters.
Download a PDF version of the fish history form.
Because evaluation of the entire environment will be needed, an on-site evaluation is ideal. If this is not feasible, instruct clients to provide high-quality photographs and videos of the aquarium environment, including all life support equipment.
It is also important to assess the client’s level of experience with fish husbandry and their understanding of fish health. General categories of fish keepers range from single-tank owners and multi-tank hobbyists, pond enthusiasts to breeders, retailers, and wholesalers. Additionally, understanding the client’s goals is critical to guiding appropriate care and management.
References
Noga EJ. Appendix I. Fish disease diagnosis form. In: Fish Disease: Diagnosis and Treatment. St. Louis, MO: Mosby; 1996. Pp. 17, 327-328.
Roberts HE. History. In: Fundamentals of Ornamental Fish Health. Wiley-Blackwell. Ames, IA: Wiley-Blackwell; 2010.
Seeley KE. Clinical examination and diagnostic sampling. In: Hadfield C, Clayton L (eds). Clinical Guide to Fish Medicine. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Son; 2021. Pp. 109-128.
Stoskopf MK. Tropical fish medicine. Taking the history. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 1988;18(2):283-91. doi: 10.1016/s0195-5616(88)50031-1. PMID: 3259749.
Pollock CG. Fish history form. LafeberVet web site. June 2, 2025. Available at https://lafeber.com/vet/fish-history-form/