Sick Fish In The Aquarium: How Can We Tell?
If you decide to have an aquarium at home, it is of fundamental importance to know the specific needs of the species you want to keep. This way you can keep your fish healthy. In addition, it is important to know the symptoms of diseases in fish and to know what to do if there is a sick fish.
In this article we will tell you how to distinguish a sick fish from a healthy one and what are the steps to follow if one of your fish is sick.
How do we spot a sick fish from a healthy one?
It can be especially difficult for beginners to tell a sick fish from a healthy fish. However, if we observe the behavior of the fish, we can identify some signs that indicate the presence of a possible disease.
Differences between a healthy fish and a sick fish
When a fish is healthy, it has a metabolism and behavior that we could define as “stable”. A sick fish, on the other hand, will show imbalances and alterations in both appearance and behavior. The main aspects to consider when identifying healthy fish from sick fish are:
1. Alterations in the shape and appearance of the body
A healthy fish has a well-proportioned body that exhibits all the physical characteristics of its species. In a sick fish, however, some alterations in the shape and appearance of the body can be observed. Abdominal bloating and excessive thinness are among the most common changes associated with fish diseases.
2. Movements when swimming
When healthy, fish swim with coordinated and balanced movements. Furthermore, they limit themselves to moving in the swimming belt where individuals of their species usually live. A sick fish, on the other hand, when swimming can make sudden or uncoordinated movements.
3. Brilliance and appearance of the scales
The scales of a healthy fish are bright and retain the color and sheen typical of their species. In addition, the fish have no spots or inflammation on the skin or gills.
The loss of scales, on the other hand, is one of the most evident symptoms of the presence of diseases. A sick fish can show deformations and alterations in the brightness, color and size of the scales.
4. Reactions to stimuli
Fish are very sensitive animals and very attentive to stimuli and changes in the environment in which they live. If a healthy fish senses an abrupt change in its environment, it will tend to run away quickly.
Many diseases can affect the senses and the ability to move of fish. A sick fish may react slower than usual or have difficulty perceiving changes in the environment in which they live.
5. Appetite
A healthy fish has a regular appetite and will not show any problems respecting the meal times set by the owner. One of the most common symptoms of fish diseases is impaired appetite, which can either increase or decrease.
What to do with a sick fish?
If you spot a sick fish in your aquarium, the first thing to do is to isolate it as quickly as possible. In an aquarium, fish share the environment in which they live and diseases can be transmitted through the water.
To prevent the disease from spreading between the different species in the aquarium, you need to pay attention to the health condition of the other fish.
As for the water, it is important to check its condition because there could be parasites or excessive algae formation.
When checking the water, it is important to measure the pH and check if the filter is working properly. In case of any alteration it will be necessary to change the water and sanitize the aquarium before putting the fish back inside.
To find out what is causing your fish’s disease, you can contact a specialized veterinarian. This professional will advise you on the most appropriate treatment to take care of your fish and prevent it from dying from the disease that has hit it.
