Death
Infections transmitted during fish pedicures may lead to death. While it is rare for these infections to result in death, experts advise people to visit the hospital if they notice any signs of infection. Also, people with underlying conditions, such as diabetes, immune system, or other severe health conditions are more vulnerable and should avoid getting fish pedicures.
Ethical concerns
Many ethical concerns must be considered when doing a fish pedicure. In some countries, many rules are put into place to guide pedicurists and sanction people who don’t respect ethics.
- The Garra rufa fish is usually imported into countries in North America and many of them die on the way.
- They may disturb the balance of the ecosystem if they are placed into the water. This is because they are a non-native species of the habitat.
- Pedicurists ensure Garra rufa fish are starved because they will only eat dessicated skin when they are hungry.
- Garra rufa are reared in large quantities in some countries. This helps provide sufficient quantities for pedicures.