Standard Operating Procedures

Zebrafish Fenbendazole Treatment

I. PURPOSE

Periodic treatment of the zebrafish tank with fenbendazole will eliminate any nematodes that may accidentally be introduced into the tank.

II. RESPONSIBILITY
It is the responsibility of the LAR staff to understand the dilution and use of fenbendazole.

III. PROCEDURE

• A. Fenbendazole (Safe-guard by Intervert, Inc., Millsboro, DE),
  • Concentration 222 mg/g of dry granules
  • Desired final concentration is 2 mg/L
  • Calculation is for 1.5 gallon tank for treatment plus 0.5 gallon for soaking carbon filter

  2 gallon  x        L               x    2 mg     x       g       = 0.0048 g = 4.8 mg
                     3.785 gal                  L              222 mg

• Morning
  • Remove carbon filter from tank
  • Dissolve 4.8 mg fenbendazole into 100 ml aerated water
  • Remove 75 ml water from the fish tank
  • Pour 75 ml of fenbendazole solution into fish tank (1.5 gallon tank) and mix gently
  • Pour 25 ml of fenbendazole solution into 1/2 gallon of water and soak filter overnight
  • Rinse filter the next day with water at least 10 times. Save filter in a zip-lock bag.
  • Replace the filter into the tank 72 hours after medication is added to tank.
  • Monitor fish at least 3 times daily for the first 3 days of treatment. If signs of distress (abnormal swimming behavior, inappetance, surface-breathing, etc.) occur, do a 50% water change immediately.
  • Repeat treatment 2 more times at weekly intervals.