Yes, you can see crypto spores under the microscope without smearing, but it's very very hard to since the spores are so small (but if you're vet is good he can probably notice them without staining). Also, if the fecal was very fresh, you can see the adult cryptosporidium protozoans swimming around (and these are much bigger than the spores and easier to see since they move).



Yes, if you use 100% ammonia and thoroughly douse the entire tank with it (use in a very well ventilated area), it will probably kill most of the spores. Afterwards you'll have to rinse it very very well and let it sit for a couple days to get all the ammonia fumes off. Maybe use a blowdryer to speed up the drying process (dryness also kills spores), but be careful since 100% ammonia is very very strong stuff, and if you breathe too much of it in, you'll have health problems yourself. I'm sure there are other ways, but I know this method works pretty well.



-Lemur 6

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