What to Do for an Aquarium Fish With the Diagnosis of Red Gills

Several factors can cause reddened gills in aquarium fish. Determining the exact cause may be difficult or even impossible. However, the treatment for fish with red gills is similar, with some variations, no matter the cause. If you cannot determine the specific cause of your fish's red gills you can combine treatments to help your fish.

  1. Gill Fluke Treatment

    • Gill flukes are microscopic external parasites that live and feed on the gills of fish. With gill flukes, you may see the gills pumping more rapidly than normal and the fish may rub themselves on objects in a vain attempt to remove the flukes. Flukes can be treated with medication added to the water. Purchase a medication that specifically states that it treats external parasites and follow the directions precisely. You may need several treatments to rid the fish of the gill flukes. Prior to treating the tank, perform a 50 percent water change. After a complete course of treatment it is also a good idea to do another partial water change to dilute or remove remaining medication from the water.

    Bacterial Treatment

    • Bacterial infections can also cause red gills in fish. Among other causes, this may occur as a result of the previously-mentioned gill fluke infestation. Fish with advanced cases of bacterial infection will have abscesses on their skin and gills. Like the fluke treatment, you will need to treat the aquarium with a medication specifically for bacterial infections. Prior to treatment, likewise perform a 50 percent water change as well as a partial water change after all treatment is completed.. To prevent future bacterial infections maintain good water quality and filtration in your fish tank. If you suspect a bacterial infection is afflicting your tank, and can't get it under control, you may need to completely empty the tank to scrub it with soap and water. Make sure to thoroughly rise the tank after washing as any remaining soap will harm the fish.

    Water Quality

    • Several problems with the quality of water in the aquarium can lead to irritation and reddening of the fish gills. Too high or too low pH, toxic levels of ammonia, chlorine in the water and oxygen depletion will all contribute to gill and breathing problems in fish. There are water quality tests available to determine if the tank's pH is problematic or if there is too much ammonia or chlorine in the water. A 50 percent water change with a good vacuuming of debris out of the gravel substrate will help improve the water quality. It is best to clean the filter as well at this time. After changing the water, test the water again. Depending on the results of the tests, treat the water with the appropriate chemicals to adjust the pH, or lower ammonia or chlorine levels as needed. All of these products are available at any store that sells fish or fish supplies. The products will come with clear and easy instructions to follow. Retest daily and repeat the process as needed until the tank is maintaining good water quality.