Diseases of Saltwater Fish

The most common diseases in saltwater fish are dropsy, marine ick, head and lateral line erosion (HLLE). Recognizing the symptoms of these diseases allows aquarium owners to find proper treatment.

  1. Dropsy

    • Dropsy causes fish to appear bloated with raised, red scales. Bacteria in aquarium water cause dropsy.

    Marine Ick

    • Bacteria and stress cause marine ick in saltwater fish. Small white spots appear on the fins of fish suffering from marine ick. In severe cases, fish look like they are covered in salt.

    HLLE

    • Head and lateral line erosion (HLLE) causes small holes to appear on the heads of fish. More severe cases cause the same sores to appear along the fish's lateral line. Poor water quality leads to HLLE.

    Prevention

    • Healthy fish live in aquariums that limit exposure to stress. Limit stress by creating a regular maintenance schedule and feeding fish according to schedule.

    Treatment

    • Most of these aliments are best treated by regulating an aquarium's water quality. Change water, monitor chemistry levels, remove active carbons, and clean up algae to restore a tank to good condition. Topical medicines found at local pet shops effectively treat marine ick.