Aquarium Fish Diseases

Ich (White Spot Disease) is the most common and deadliest freshwater aquarium disease. The Ichthyophthirius multifiliis parasite creates visible white spots on fish and can wipe out an entire tank if untreated. Treatment requires understanding the parasite's 3-stage life cycle and treating for the full 10-14 day cycle.

Velvet disease creates a fine gold/rust dust appearance on fish skin and is more lethal than ich because it attacks gills aggressively. Treated with copper medication (Cupramine) in a darkened tank. Often harder to detect than ich — use a flashlight at an angle to spot the characteristic shimmer.

Neon Tetra Disease is an incurable parasitic infection that destroys muscle tissue, causing color loss and wasting. No treatment exists — infected fish must be removed immediately to prevent spread. Prevention through quarantine and removing dead fish is the only defense.

Fin rot is a bacterial infection that progressively destroys fish fins and tails. It's the most common disease in betta fish and almost always signals poor water quality. Treatment starts with water quality improvement, then salt and antibiotics for moderate to severe cases. Fins can regenerate with proper care.

Dropsy is a critical condition caused by internal organ (kidney) failure, resulting in severe bloating and pinecone-like scale protrusion. It's usually fatal by the time visible symptoms appear. Early detection and aggressive antibiotic treatment offer the best chance, but prevention through excellent husbandry is far more effective.

Columnaris is a highly contagious bacterial infection often mistaken for fungus due to its white, cottony appearance. Unlike ich, LOWER temperature to slow it. Treat with Kanaplex + Furan-2 antibiotic combo. Acute form can kill within 24-72 hours — speed is critical.

Aquarium salt is a versatile, gentle remedy for ich, fin rot, velvet, and general stress recovery. This guide covers proper dosing, salt-sensitive species to watch out for, and common mistakes to avoid. Not a permanent additive — use only during treatment periods.

Swim bladder disease is a buoyancy disorder causing fish to float, sink, or swim erratically. Most commonly caused by constipation from overfeeding — treated by fasting 2-3 days then feeding blanched peas. Especially common in fancy goldfish and bettas. Usually resolves within days with proper treatment.