What should you do if your fish have ick and raise the temperature of tank?

If your fish have ick, raising the temperature of the tank is not recommended as it can worsen the condition. Ick, scientifically known as Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, is a parasitic disease that affects freshwater fish. Here's what you should do if your fish have ick:

1. Isolate the Infected Fish:

- If possible, isolate the affected fish in a separate quarantine tank to prevent the spread of the disease to other healthy fish.

2. Lower the Water Temperature:

- Contrary to raising the temperature, lowering the water temperature to around 75-78°F (24-26°C) can slow down the parasite's life cycle and make it more susceptible to treatment.

3. Use Over-the-Counter Ick Treatments:

- Purchase an over-the-counter medication specifically designed to treat ick. Follow the dosage instructions on the product label carefully.

4. Increase Aeration:

- Ick treatments can reduce oxygen levels in the water. Make sure to increase aeration in the tank to ensure adequate oxygen for your fish.

5. Monitor Water Quality:

- Maintain good water quality by regularly testing the water parameters and performing partial water changes. Keep the tank clean and remove waste to prevent further stress on the fish.

6. Feed Small Amounts of High-Quality Food:

- Offer small amounts of high-quality food during treatment. Overfeeding can worsen the condition.

7. Be Patient:

- Ick treatment may take several weeks. It's important to remain patient and follow the treatment instructions consistently to ensure effective eradication of the parasite.

If the ick infestation is severe or if your fish are not responding to treatment, consult with a veterinarian or an experienced aquarist for further guidance.