Algae & Goldfish Fungus

The goldfish is a common beginners pet.

Goldfish are a common first pet because they are inexpensive to obtain, quiet and do not require a lot of space. However, the most difficult part of keeping goldfish is keeping its aquarium clean. Unclean water habitats leads to an overgrowth of algae, leading to health problems such as goldfish fungus, which is the most common cause of death in goldfish.

Symptoms

Small fluffy spots or dots on your goldfish is a sign that it has a fungus problem.

Cause

Goldfish do not thrive in high temperatures.

Goldfish fungus, also known as cotton wool disease, often occurs when the goldfish has a weak immune system, usually following an injury such as getting picked on by another goldfish. Other conditions that can affect a goldfish's health include poor water quality, stress and a sudden change in temperature.

Control and Treatment

Salt solution can help treat goldfish fungus, but do not use table salt.

Quarantine your fish if you have more than one by separating each one into individual tanks. Treat the fish by adding 3 percent or 3 grams of salt to 1 liter of water of salt for 15 minutes. Do not use table salt, which contains iodine and can harm fish. You can also buy antifungal treatment from your local pet store, but make sure it does not contain any harmful chemicals.

Prevention

Maintain a clean fish tank for a happy and healthy fish.

Prevent your goldfish from contracting fungus by cleaning its tank at least once a week. Place a suitable filtration system in its tank. Clean the tank with hot water. Dechlorinate tap water. Do not place fish tank in direct sunlight or near a heating source. Do not keep sharp objects in the tank that can damage goldfish scales.

Algae

An overgrowth of algae can cause a sick fish.

Soupy green water is a sign of a dirty tank that can compromise a goldfish's health. Algae growth in fish tanks is normal; however, out-of-control algae growth that covers the entire tank and becomes smelly slime is harmful. Algae growth accelerates in the presence of sunlight. Prevent excessive growth by providing shade over the water.

Include plants such as water lilies in your aquarium, which can provide needed shade and also utilize the nutrients that algae would otherwise thrive on. Place UV lights over the tank. The UV rays destroy algae DNA. Remove any floating debris, such as uneaten food, that may eventually drop to the bottom of the tank. Ensure sufficient oxygen levels with a suitable aquarium aerator. Add algae-eating fish such as the goby or other bottom-dwelling fish.

Feeding and Diet

Do not overfeed your fish.

The right fish diet helps in maintaining a clean tank. Do not overfeed your fish. Uneaten food particles results in an increase in phosphate, which is responsible for algal growth. Overfeeding also leads to an increase in ammonia and nitrite and decrease in oxygen and pH levels, causing an unstable aquatic habitat for your fish. Feed only as much as your goldfish can eat in two to three minutes two or three times a day. Use high-quality foods that are high in amino acids, not cheap foods with a large amount of indigestible protein.

References

• Goldfish Care: Fungus Disease
• Types of Fungus: Goldfish Fungus
• Kokos Goldfish: Fungus
• Goldfish Connection: How Do I Control Algae in My Goldfish Aquarium?