DISEASE TREATMENT





METHODS OF DISEASE TREATMENT

Under ideal conditions, fish rarely fall ill, but when they do, isolating the affected fish can prevent the spread of disease. The best way to isolate a sick fish is by setting up a hospital tank.

Hospital Tank

A hospital tank should have no substrate or live plants. Provide shelter using overturned flower pots and plastic plants to help reduce stress. Use a sponge filter or an internal box filter that does not contain chemical filtration or activated carbon, as these materials can remove medications from the water. Avoid strong power filters, as excessive water movement may further stress sick fish. The tank should include a reliable heater with minimal temperature fluctuation. To prevent burns, enclose the heater in plastic mesh or a protective covering. Keep the lighting dim and place the tank in a dark room, as some pathogens do not thrive in the absence of light. Additionally, use an air stone to ensure sufficient oxygen levels, as some medications reduce the availability of dissolved oxygen.

When transferring a sick fish to the hospital tank, match the water conditions as closely as possible to the main tank to minimize stress. After treatment, disinfect the hospital tank with a dilute hydrochloric acid or potassium permanganate solution. Allow the disinfectant to stand for two to three days, then thoroughly rinse and clean the tank. Re-establish biological filtration before using the tank again.

A hospital tank can also serve as a quarantine tank. Ideally, all new fish should be quarantined for three to six weeks before being introduced to the main aquarium.

Baths

An alternative treatment method is to administer a short-term "bath" in a separate container with water and medication or salt. Chemical baths using substances such as formalin can be purchased from aquarium stores. Salt baths are effective for a wide range of ailments. The concentration and duration of the bath should be adjusted according to the specific condition being treated.

Heat Therapy

Heat therapy involves gradually raising the water temperature to eliminate certain parasites. This method should only be used in clean tanks with an ample oxygen supply. Increase the temperature by 1.8�F (1�C) per hour until the desired level is reached. Closely monitor the fish's condition, as stressed fish may struggle to tolerate the temperature change. If adverse effects appear, discontinue treatment immediately.

Medicated Foods

Internal parasites can often be treated using medicated fish food. These specially formulated foods contain anti-parasitic or antibiotic ingredients that help combat internal infections.

Warning About Commercial Medications

Unlike human medications, commercial fish treatments are not regulated by government agencies. Some products have not been properly tested for safety or effectiveness, meaning they may be ineffective or even harmful to fish. To ensure the quality of a medication, choose products that clearly list the active ingredients and their concentrations. Avoid medications that do not provide this information. While well-known brands (e.g., Tetra) are generally reliable, verifying the ingredients is always recommended.

Humane Euthanasia of Fish

If a fish is suffering from an incurable disease, euthanasia may be the most humane option. Acceptable methods include:
  • Severing the spinal cord just behind the head with sharp scissors.
  • Placing the fish in water and rapidly cooling it with ice.
  • Overdosing with an anesthetic such as Alka-Seltzer�.
These methods provide a quick and humane end to suffering.

Being Prepared for Disease

It is always advisable to be prepared for a potential disease outbreak. Essential supplies include:
  • A hospital tank
  • Buckets
  • Adequate salt supply
Additionally, fish keepers should familiarize themselves with the normal behavior of their fish, including feeding habits, swimming patterns, and activity levels. Noticing deviations from normal behavior can help detect illness early.

Procedure for Treating Ailing Fish

If a fish appears unwell, follow these steps before administering medication:

1) Observe the fish closely and note any changes in appearance or behavior.

2) Check environmental conditions, as poor water quality is the leading cause of stress, illness, and death in aquariums.
  • Test pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels.
  • If possible, check oxygen levels.
  • Ensure no contaminants (paint fumes, pesticides, cleaning agents) have entered the tank.
  • Verify that all equipment (heater, air pump, filter) is functioning properly.
  • Check for signs of aggression from tank mates.
  • Review dietary habits and tank layout to ensure they meet the fish's needs.
If water quality issues are detected, correct them by performing water changes. If conditions appear normal, proceed to the next step.

3) Prepare a hospital tank and set up two well-aerated buckets with dechlorinated water matching the main tank�s parameters.

4) Transfer the sick fish to the first bucket using a net. Gradually add 3/8 teaspoon of salt per gallon (0.5 g/L) every two minutes for 10 minutes. Then move the fish to the second bucket containing fresh water for 30-45 minutes. After 15-20 minutes, add 3/8 teaspoon of salt per gallon (0.5 g/L).

5) Transfer the fish to the hospital tank. Change 30-50% of the water daily. After 24 hours, place the fish in a shallow, clear bowl and examine it for parasites or disease symptoms. If necessary, use a magnifying glass.

6) Keep the fish isolated for at least 10 days and continue treatment as needed.

Specific Diseases that Affect Tropical Freshwater Fish