Common Fish Diseases and How to Treat Them
By Melbourne Tropical Team ยท 1 min read
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Recognise and treat the most common aquarium fish diseases, from white spot to fin rot and dropsy.
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Spotting illness early
Early detection is everything. Watch for changes in appetite, colour, breathing and behaviour such as flashing or clamped fins.
The most common diseases
White spot (ich) shows as salt-like dots; fin rot frays the fins; velvet coats fish in gold dust; dropsy causes pinecone scales. Each has specific treatments โ see our full fish disease database for symptoms, causes and cures.
Prevention beats cure
Quarantine new fish, avoid temperature shocks and keep water pristine. Most diseases take hold only when fish are stressed by poor conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common aquarium fish disease?
White spot (ich) is the most common, appearing as tiny white grains on the body and fins.
Should I quarantine new fish?
Yes. A 2-4 week quarantine prevents most disease outbreaks in your main tank.