Bettas by Jennifer Lapello
Ich
Also known as Ick
A Betta infected with Ich. Note the small white spots on the fish's fins and body. Photographer unknown.
Symptoms: Small white spots resembling grains of sand anywhere on the fish’s body and fins. Fish may try to scrape against
objects in an attempt to remove the parasites,
Cause: External parasite (Ichthyophthirius multifilis).
Treatment:
Treat with a medication designed to eradicate this parasite such as malachite green, methylene blue, or medications containing one
of these for 10-14 days. Raise water temperature to 80-84 degrees (this speeds up the life cycle of this organism, making treatment
go more quickly). Perform regular water changes during the course of treatment.
Prevention: Keep water clean at
all times. Avoid sharing nets, etc., that have been in contact with affected fish.