Watch Out for Tropical Fish Diseases

Tropical fish can be delightful to have in the home. Even though you want them to live as long as possible, at times they can be vulnerable to disease. Here's a look at some typical health issues that affect tropical fish and how to get rid of them so your little swimmers will flourish.

• Dropsy is a bacterial disease that targets the kidneys. Symptoms to watch for include bloating. The fish will also appear to have their fins sticking out. If detected in the early stages, you can easily treat this ailment with medications that will eliminate the bacterial infection and avert additional damage to the kidneys.

• Gas bubbles happen when the aquarium water is changed improperly, or if you top it up with water that’s too cold. These actions alter the gas pressure inside the tank and cause your fish to develop growths that resemble blisters. If you notice this happening, turn up the aeration speed and turn off the aquarium light in order to reduce the stress your fish are experiencing.

• Hemorrhagic septicemia is a bacterial problem that occurs in goldfish. It is distinguished by streaks on the fins that are dark red in color. They seem to just show up with no other indications of damage to the scales. An antibiotic treatment like tetracycline will take care of this problem. Check with an expert for recommendations on the best product.

• Ichthyophtirius, or Ick, is typified by small white spots on the body and fins that resemble grains of salt. This disease is considered to be parasitic and can be cured relatively easily if you catch it early. The most effective treatment is Malachite Green. This product is considered to be poisonous to the majority of invertebrates, but it is generally safe for tropical fish.

• Nitrate, ammonia and carbon dioxide poisoning can result from excessive waste products accumulating in the aquarium. This will raise the pH level of the water and lead to bacterial infections. To avoid this problem, don't neglect regular maintenance of your aquarium. Keep your tank clean, maintain the correct amount of aeration, make sure you're using the proper filters, and check the pH level of the water periodically if this is a potential risk for your particular breed of fish.

• Velvet is another parasitic disease which enters through an open wound and spreads to the gills. It manifests on the dorsal fins and is gray or yellow-brown in color. You might observe that your fish is scratching this area and panting. The problem can be treated with any commercial product available for this particular disease.

These are just a few of the health problems that your tropical fish could experience, and you might want to learn more. Regardless of how diligently you care for your fish, these ailments can still show up, so monitor your fish every day for any symptoms. If you nip the problem in the bud, they will be back to their usual selves in no time.