Most aquarium fish diseases start from one cause: water quality. When waste builds up or the temperature changes suddenly, fish immunity drops and they become vulnerable to parasites, bacteria and fungi. Early diagnosis makes a big difference, because disease spreads quickly in a tank.
1. White spot (Ich)
Symptoms: small white dots like grains of salt on the body and fins, rubbing against rocks and decor, and rapid breathing.
Cause: a parasite that often becomes active after a sudden temperature drop or adding new fish without quarantine.
Treatment: a dedicated white spot treatment for the whole tank, not just the affected fish, completing the full course even after spots disappear, as the parasite goes through life stages.
2. Fungus
Symptoms: white or grey cotton-like growths on the body, mouth or wounds.
Cause: usually affects injured fish or fish with weak immunity due to poor water quality.
Treatment: an anti-fungal and wound treatment, along with improving water quality.
3. Fin rot
Symptoms: ragged or torn fins, white or dark edges, and fins that gradually shrink.
Cause: a bacterial infection linked to waste and nitrate build-up, or fin nipping between fish.
Treatment: a partial water change, a dedicated wound and infection treatment, and checking fish compatibility.
Before any treatment: key rules
Remove activated carbon from the filter during treatment, as it absorbs medication.
Dose according to your tank's actual volume.
Check the treatment is safe for snails, shrimp and plants if you have them.
Increase aeration during treatment.
Prevention is better than cure
Change 20% to 30% of the water weekly.
Keep a stable temperature suitable for your fish species.
Do not overfeed, and remove uneaten food.
Quarantine new fish for two weeks in a separate tank before adding them.
Do not overstock the tank beyond its capacity.
Use water purifiers and tank disinfectants when setting up a tank or after a disease outbreak.
At Catu Store
Aquadine anti white spot treatment.
Aquadine fungus, parasite and wound treatment.
Aquadine No.1 and Aquadine 3 for purifying and disinfecting tank water.