GOLDFISH DISEASE TREATMENT AND PREVENTION

GOLDFISH DISEASE TREATMENT AND PREVENTION

Many goldfish are imported in very cold water, in crowded conditions, making them very susceptible to disease (especially ich). Shubunkins make a better choice than common or comet Goldfish, as they receive better treatment in shipping and are not as "overbred" (and of coarse Ryukins and Orandas are great choice when it comes to their beauty). Although goldfish are not very particular about water conditions, they still do better at a ph of 7.2 to 7.8 and a high mineral content (especially calcium and magnesium- GH of 150 ppm or more and a KH over 80 ppm).

Goldfish also are basically “grazing fish” and need to be fed frequent small amounts of fish food that are not made from animal based products. Goldfish do well on foods high in vegetable based proteins (such as spirulina), they need a high fat content and Vitamins C & E, and carotenoid for color enhancement.

Canister filters are great for goldfish, due to there high efficiency and great bio load and mechanical filtration abilities (although make sure to clean them regularly, or they become nitrate factories). Unfortunately they are generally expensive. A combination of “hang on back” filters (such as ReSun and Aqua Clear) and sponge filters are an excellent combination for less money.

Regular water changes are a must. A small 20% change once per week is best (sometimes larger less frequent changes can be performed as per one’s busy schedule). Using a gravel vacuum is the best and easiest way to change water (a new device called an "Aquarium Cleaning Machine" is awesome for larger tanks). Make sure the water is of similar ph and temperature and has no chlorine or chloramines when you add it to your aquarium.

Remember, goldfish are dirty animals, can grow up to 12” (or more), so house them in an appropriate aquarium for good health and long life. Even if you start out with a ten gallon aquarium, I recommend moving up to a 45-60 gallon aquarium as soon as possible.

Add or subtract many of these points, and your goldfish may have problems. I recommend "Wonder Shells" (For essential positive mineral ions as well as an aid to pH/KH stability) or "Medicated Wonder Shells" for prevention and/ or treatment of goldfish disease (Ich/ Fungus), and water conditions. Of coarse good maintenance, proper feeding, proper filtration, are not replaced by this product. I have used this product on my aquarium maintenance route (30+ years experience) with GREAT results.

For another article with some more information about this subject (including breeding), please click here:
"GOLDFISH BASICS; Disease Treatment & Prevention"