How to Use Ick Treatment for Goldfish

If you notice your goldfish have symptoms such as white spots, cloudy eyes, loss of appetite and ragged fins, they most likely have contracted a parasitic disease called ichtyopthirius, also known as Ick. These parisites burrow into the skin of the fish and feed upon them, resulting in visible white spots. While common among goldfish, you should treat any instance of Ick as soon as you notice it. Left untreated, the disease will destroy your fish.

Things You'll Need

  • Thermostat
  • Malachite green
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove any filters with activated charcoal and disable UV sterilizers and protein skimmers to ensure the treatment will work properly. Remove any snails and aquarium plants that may be sensitive to the chemical treatment.

    • 2

      To speed up the life cycle of the parasites--as they can only be treated during the free swimming phase--increase the water temperature a 1/2 degree Celsius every day you treat the aquarium. Install a thermostat to accomplish this. Increase the temperature to a maximum of 77 degrees Fahrenheit, or 25 degrees Celsius.

    • 3

      Treat the water with a liquid treatment containing malachite green, such as Quick Cure. Add one drop of Quick Cure per gallon of water daily for three days. If the white spots don't disappear in the first three days, perform a 25 percent water change in the aquarium before adding another dose. For malachite green preparations other than Quick Cure, follow the product instructions for specific treatment instructions.