Dropsy is a common condition among aquarium fish and is typically identified as a symptom and not a real disease. A fish that is showing signs of dropsy may be suffering from underlying problems that need to be addressed separately.
What are the signs and symptoms of dropsy?
The main symptom of dropsy is the swelling of the fish. The term itself was used to describe the swelling caused by a buildup of fluids, especially to the logo of the tissues and cavities of the body. This swelling is usually located in the belly, but this is not always the case.
In some situations, other symptoms become obvious, such as the appearance of bristling scales, swollen anus and puffy eyes, gills become pale, and feces become fibrous.
It will also be easy to notice some behavioral changes, such as fish lethargy (hiding or staying at the bottom of the fish tank most of the time), remaining close to the surface and apparent lack of appetite.
Note, however, that these symptoms are progressive. This means that as the condition progresses, you will increasingly see the above symptoms, starting with anemia and loss of gill color. From there the abdomen begins to swell and the digestive tract is affected, preventing the fish from being able to digest food or excrete properly.
But are there any initial signs to identify this condition?
Like all health problems, dropsy is best treated before physical symptoms become apparent. During this time, you have no other signs but behavioral changes that can be easily observed if you are attentive when it comes to your fish.
Usually, the fish suffering from dropsy stops eating completely, often hiding in only one part of the fish tank and moving away from their companions. This lack of appetite usually extends for two to three days before the belly begins to swell.
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Which species of fish are affected by this condition?
The condition is not limited to specific species of fish. You will find that any type kept in the fish tank can develop this infection, although kinguios appear to be the ones that are usually affected by the problem. Note, however, that fish with a low immune system are the most likely to suffer from this condition.
If your fish are stressed, dropsy can become apparent in more than one of them. As the owner of your animals, you should always be observing the inhabitants of the aquarium and making sure that there are no environmental factors that can trigger the problem.
What are the main causes of dropsy?
Here are some possible causes of dropsy, but the underlying problem stems from bacteria that lead to infection. The infection takes care of the fish with a weak immune system. The problems associated with this state can be:
Temperature
Note that the value is variable depending on the type of species you have. Ideally, you should search for the exact temperature preferences for your fish and set the fish tank to this setting. That way, you are 100% sure that the environment, at least in the matter of temperature, is compatible with the species.
Poor water quality
Poor water quality means it has bacteria floating around, compromising the immune system and increasing the chances of dropsy. Fortunately, you can maintain water quality through good hygiene. This includes cleaning the filters, oxygenation of the water, TPAs and removal of organic matter from the fish tank.
Of course, do not forget the possibility of inadequate nutrition, which usually stems from feeding fish with low quality food. Make sure you’re offering approved and reputable brand rations on the market.
Animal stress
In fact, another factor that can contribute to dropsy includes the stress suffered by fish due to being in inadequate quantity in the aquarium, or with incompatible species that can pursue them and cause damage and injury to the body. A fish that has recently been transferred may also present symptoms due to the stress suffered in the aquarium change.
Is there any way to treat dropsy?
Dropsy is not something you can instantly cure, bearing in mind that there are several possible reasons for this. However, some aquarists try to solve the problem and eventually cure the condition.
Recovering a fish that has dropsy is not impossible to do, but it will require care and attention from the aquarist. Follow the steps below to take care of a infected fish:
Quarantine the fish
The first step in the treatment of dropsy is through quarantine. The condition is not contagious, however to put the infected fish in quarentine is an excellent precaution to not infect the others.
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Salt treatment
After isolating the fish, it’s time to add some salt in the aquarium of this infected fish. The rule is that you have to add 1 teaspoon of salt for every 4 liters of water. Change the water regularly, still adhering to 1 teaspoon for every 4 liters added to the container.
Important: Most freshwater fish do not tolerate salt, so make sure the species you own supports some amount of salt in the aquarium.
Try to feed your fish with a healthy diet
A good diet (along with perfect water conditions) is the best way to prevent and treat common diseases. The fish food will depend on the species you create. But as a rule, the diet should be composed of a quality food like flakes, with additional supplementation of love, frozen and vegetable foods.
Antibacterial medicines
The quickest and easiest way to treat dropsy in fish is to add an antibacterial remedy to your hospital aquarium. There are some on the market like Labcon Bacter and Api Melafix (this seems to be more effective), but it’s up to the aquarist to test and see what the best option is.
Conclusion
In fact, a good diet can cure most diseases and conditions common to fish. Antibacterial medicine and adequate water conditions will also contribute.
In summary, the general rule is that the aquarist always needs to keep an eye on the behavior of the fish. Avoiding a possible stress between them, as well as check the temperature of the tank, parameters of the water and provide quality food so that the problem does not occur in the future.
**If you suspect your pet is sick, call a veterinarian immediately. For health-related issues, however, always consult your veterinarian, as he has examined your pet, knows his health history, and can make the best recommendations for him.**
References
Hoole, D. (2001) Diseases of Carp and other Cyprinid fishes John Wiley and Sons
Orr, James, M.A., D.D. General Editor. “Entry for ‘DROPSY'”. “International Standard Bible Encyclopedia”. 1915.
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