How to Treat Ich on African Cichlids
What is Ich?
Ich, or Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, is a common parasitic infection of fish that appears as white spots on the fins or body of the fish. Ich is caused by a single-celled organism and is commonly found in freshwater aquariums. African cichlids are particularly prone to this infection and it is important to treat it quickly to prevent it from spreading.
Signs of Ich
The primary sign of Ich is the presence of white spots on the fins or body of the fish. Other signs of Ich include flashing, rubbing against objects, and a decrease in appetite. It is important to note that the white spots are not always the only sign of Ich and can be accompanied by other signs.
Treatment of Ich
The first step in treating Ich is to raise the temperature of the aquarium to 86-90°F (30-32°C). This will cause the Ich organism to move more quickly and make it easier to eradicate. The next step is to reduce the salinity of the water to 1-2 teaspoons of aquarium salt per gallon of water. This will create an environment that is unfavorable for the Ich organism.
Medication Treatment
The next step in treating Ich is to administer medication to the aquarium. There are many medications available to treat Ich, such as copper sulfate, formalin, and malachite green. It is important to follow the instructions on the medication label carefully to ensure that the medication is used correctly and that it is safe for the fish.
Filtration and Water Changes
In addition to medication treatment, it is important to install a filter and perform regular water changes. The filter will help to remove any remaining Ich organisms from the water, while the water changes will help to reduce the amount of medication in the water and ensure that the water is clean and healthy for the fish. In addition, it is important to remove any dead or decaying matter from the aquarium to help prevent further outbreaks of Ich.