1. Bacterial Fin Rot:
- Signs: Fins appear ragged, torn, or eroded.
- Treatment: Dip fry in a methylene blue solution for 5-10 seconds. Alternatively, you can add aquarium salt (approximately 1 teaspoon per 5 gallons of water) to the tank.
2. Fungus (Saprolegnia and Columnaris):
- Signs: Fluffy white or cotton-like growth on the body, fins, or eggs.
- Treatment: Apply a topical antifungal medication directly to the affected area. Alternatively, add malachite green to the tank following the package instructions. Regular water changes are essential during treatment.
3. Ich (White Spot Disease):
- Signs: Small white spots on the body and fins.
- Treatment: Gradually raise the water temperature to 86-89°F (30-32°C) for 10-14 days. This temperature accelerates the life cycle of Ich, making it easier to treat. You can also add an over-the-counter Ich treatment product to the tank according to the dosage instructions.
4. Dropsy:
- Signs: Swollen abdomen, protruding scales, and lethargy.
- Treatment: Dropsy is often a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics. Consult with a veterinarian or a knowledgeable aquarist for recommendations on suitable antibiotics for guppy fry.
5. Velvet Disease (Oodinium):
- Signs: Gold or bronze-colored dust-like particles on the body and fins.
- Treatment: Use a copper-based medication following the recommended dosage. Copper is toxic to snails and invertebrates, so remove them from the tank during treatment.
6. Parasites:
- Signs: Fry look lethargic, lose appetite, or have visible parasites such as anchor worms or gill flukes.
- Treatment: Depending on the type of parasite, there are various over-the-counter medications available to eliminate parasites. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Maintaining clean and well-maintained tank conditions, providing a balanced diet, and ensuring minimal stress for your fry will help reduce the risk of diseases. Regularly inspect your guppy fry for any signs of illness and act quickly to provide the appropriate treatment. Isolating affected fry in a separate quarantine tank is also a good practice to prevent the spread of diseases to the rest of the population.