How to Treat Pop-Eye in Aquariums

The popular Black Moor Goldfish has been selectively bred to have large, bulging and telescoping eyes, but this look is not normal for other fish. If you look in your tank and see that your fish has suddenly developed that wide-eyed look, chances are your fish has pop-eye, and you should begin treating it for the condition as soon as possible. Pop-eye is not a disease in itself--it is a sign of an underlying problem. Getting to the heart of that problem is the key to effective treatment.

Things You'll Need

  • Nitrogen test kit
  • Medicated fish food
  • Antibiotics
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Instructions

    • 1

      Turn down any powerheads that you have on your undergravel filter because they can cause a supersaturation of nitrogen inside the tank. This, in turn, can cause pop-eye in your fish. Also test the water for excess levels of nitrogen and nitrates, which can cause the same issue.

    • 2

      Remove half of the water in the tank and replace it with fresh dechlorinated water. Retest the water to make sure the nitrogen and nitrate levels have dropped. If the pop-eye was caused by nitrogen you should see your fish improve within a couple of days.

    • 3

      Feed the infected fish medicated fish food to fight the bacterial causes of pop-eye. Watch the fish carefully for signs of improvement during the treatment.

    • 4

      Treat the affected fish with Maracyn-Two or Kanacyn if it does not improve with the medicated food. Watch your fish closely for signs of improvement.