Freshwater fish disease is extremely common with nearly every fish owner, as nearly every type of freshwater fish is susceptible to catching and incubating a number of diseases in various forms. While there is no one formula for preventing or treating every disease, most of them can be prevented by diligent tank care and maintaining a healthy water supply. Some chemical supplements are also available commercially which can help inhibit the likelihood of some types of freshwater fish disease, including those types which are caused by bacteria and fungus.
It's helpful, though, to have a basic understanding of freshwater fish disease, and to learn to recognize the most common forms. Only then will you be able to catch an outbreak with enough time to at least try to save the life of your fish -or perhaps the livelihood of your entire aquarium .
Ichthyophthiriasis (Ich)
The most common form of freshwater fish disease is Ichthyophthiriasis or "Ich," an affliction characterized by small, white pustules resembling pimples or grains of salt which concentrate mostly on the fish's fins. Regrettably, Ich is much easier to diagnose than it is to treat. Ich is, essentially, a form of parasite which attaches itself to the outer body of a fish in the form of pustules. Eventually, the pustules expand and drop off, floating to the bottom of the aquarium where they dig into the gravel or rock and multiply. If left to their own devices, the parasites will then be able to multiply enough to reattach itself on every fish in the tank.
Bacterial Infection
There are several types of bacterial infections; in fact, there are too many to list in just one short article. However, generally speaking, the most common symptoms for bacterial infection in your fish is either the appearance of orange or red streaks on the body, or bulging or over-enlarged body parts, such as the sides and stomach. Most bacterial infections are easily remedied; try a commercially available treatment for best results.
Ammonia Poisoning
While sadly common, ammonia poisoning is one freshwater fish disease that cannot be cured. The symptoms of ammonia poisoning are characterized by the outbreak of red or bleeding gills. Sometimes, a fish will also turn darker in color or swim near the top of the tank as it gasps for breath. Aside from the symptoms, one of the reasons why ammonia poisoning is such a sad freshwater fish disease is that it's easily preventable. Ammonia and nitrate levels are extremely hazardous to your fish; regular water change-outs and tank cleaning, as well as periodic water tests and chemical or supplement additives can maintain a healthy living environment for your fish-not to mention avoid such tragedies as ammonia poisoning.
Final Thoughts
While freshwater fish disease can't always be cured, it can usually be prevented with the help of some in-depth knowledge and understanding on how to care for your fish and your tank. If you have questions, visit your local pet supply store or aquarium and find out what you can do to help avoid an outbreak of freshwater fish disease in your home aquarium.
