Educational aquatic biology platformSpecies • habitat • feeding • reproduction • conservation
Fish health

Common Fish Diseases

Educational information about signs and prevention. Symptoms can overlap, so diagnosis should not be made from a webpage alone.

This section is not a veterinary diagnostic service. Seek advice from a qualified aquatic veterinarian or fish-health professional for diagnosis and treatment.

Ich / White Spot

General signs include white spots, rubbing and rapid breathing. Quarantine and water-quality management help reduce risk.

Fin Rot

Frayed or receding fins may be associated with poor water quality, injury or secondary infection.

Fungal infections

Cotton-like growths can occur on damaged tissue or eggs, often secondarily.

Bacterial infections

Ulcers, hemorrhage, swelling and tissue damage can have multiple bacterial or non-bacterial causes.

Parasites

Flashing, weight loss, abnormal feces and respiratory signs can have several causes.

Swim bladder disorders

Buoyancy problems can be nutritional, environmental, infectious or anatomical.

Dropsy

Swelling and raised scales are a symptom complex, not one single disease.

Velvet

Dusty appearance, flashing and respiratory stress can occur; early identification matters.

Prevention

Healthy aquarium basics

Quarantine

Separate new arrivals when practical.

Water quality

Monitor ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, temperature, pH and oxygen as appropriate.

Nutrition

Use a species-appropriate diet and avoid chronic overfeeding.

Stress reduction

Provide suitable space, cover and compatible tank mates.