Treatment FAQ

what is the best freshwater aquarium treatment

by Elvera Fahey Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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Best Aquarium Water Conditioners Reviewed
  1. Seachem Prime. Gallons treated – 500 milliliters treats 5,000 gallons (18,927 liters) ...
  2. API Tap Water Conditioner. Gallons treated: ...
  3. Aqualife Complete Water Conditioner. ...
  4. Aqueon Water Conditioner. ...
  5. Aquatic Experts TankFirst Premium Complete Water Conditioner.

What is the best tap water treatment for aquariums?

API tap water conditioner can be considered as one of the best value for tap water treatments primarily because it is designed to significantly aid purify aquarium water that comes directly out of your tap. This product comes in a number of available bottle sizes so you can pick the one that’s suitable for your tank- the price varies too.

What is the best freshwater aquarium?

Based on our reviews, the Aqueon LED Fish Aquarium Starter Kit is on top as the best freshwater aquarium. We like that it includes the basics, with decent quality products.

What are the best aquarium fish medications?

From there, you can consider some of our top picks for the best aquarium fish medications reviewed below: API Stress Coat: This medication is technically a water conditioner, but it provides other benefits as well.

What is the best Ick cure for a saltwater tank?

API Super Ick Cure: Choose from several sizes of this powerful ick cure that quickly kills the parasite within 24 hours of the first dose. It is for use in both freshwater and saltwater tanks and also adds a slime coat for protection against future disease. 4.

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How do I keep my freshwater aquarium healthy?

Properly condition your water. ... Acclimate your fish to the water. ... Float fish in their bag. ... Maintain pH balance and other chemical levels. ... Make sure water temperature is right. ... Change water regularly. ... Clean tank glass and other structures. ... Choose the right size for your tank.More items...

How do you keep a freshwater fish tank clear?

Ways to Keep Your Aquarium CleanUse a Proper Filter. The best way to keep an aquarium clean is with a proper filter for the tank's type and size. ... Change the Water Regularly. ... Feed Fish Correctly. ... Welcome an Algae Eater. ... Take Time to Clean the Tank. ... Clean the Outside of the Tank.

How can I get beneficial bacteria in my aquarium fast?

How to Get Beneficial Bacteria in Fish Aquarium?Increase the Water Temperature.Increase Oxygen Levels.Turn Off the Lights.Let the Filter Run.Add Filter Media.Don't Add More Fish.

What should I treat my aquarium with?

For general Ich treatment, a ratio of 1 tablespoon per 5 gallons should be used. To avoid stressing fish, dissolve small amounts of salt in water and add the solution to your aquarium gradually over a 24-hour period until the full dose has been administered.

Why does my fish tank water get cloudy so fast?

After starting a new aquarium, it is not uncommon for the aquarium to become cloudy. This is due to beneficial, nitrogen converting bacteria colonizing to oxidize ammonia and nitrites. This bacteria bloom can also occur in an established aquarium if there is a sudden increase in nutrients.

How can I improve the water quality in my fish tank?

6 Steps to Improve Water Quality in Your AquariumStart with Purified Water. The water you add to your tank can make keeping an aquarium easy or very difficult; here's why. ... Don't Over-feed the Aquarium. ... Swap Out your Mechanical Filter Media. ... Change Chemical Filter Media. ... Test the Water. ... Make Water Changes. ... Final thoughts.

How often should I add beneficial bacteria to my tank?

You need to add bacteria to an aquarium as often as you add new fish to the tank or change its water. If you change your aquarium's water once every two weeks, then you need to add bacteria to your tank two times a month. This ensures the bacteria can keep up with the waste conversion.

Can you add too much beneficial bacteria to a tank?

You can't add too much good bacteria to a fish tank. The beneficial bacteria will feed on the amount of ammonia available for it. If there are more bacteria than food, the extra bacteria will die or become dormant. A more common problem is not having enough nitrifying bacteria.

How long does it take for good bacteria to grow in an aquarium?

4 to 6 weeksNormally, it takes 4 to 6 weeks for the growth of beneficial bacteria to complete the nitrogen cycle in a new aquarium.

What does Melafix treat?

MELAFIX™ API® MELAFIX fish remedy is an all-natural antibacterial treatment that works to treat infections in fish. Common bacterial infections are open wounds and abrasions, tail rot, eye cloud, and mouth fungus. MELAFIX fish remedy also promotes regrowth of damaged fins and tissue.

When should I add medicine to my aquarium?

1:504:16Aquarium Medications: How to Treat Sick Fish - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf the infection is so severe you may need to repeat the treatment or still remove the fish. AndMoreIf the infection is so severe you may need to repeat the treatment or still remove the fish. And treat it in a quarantine or hospital tank with a stronger medication.

What is Methylene Blue used for in aquariums?

Methylene Blue effectively prevents and protects against superficial fungal infections of fishes, and also protects newly laid fish eggs from fungal or bacterial infections. As a secondary use, it is also effective against some external protozoans, including Ichthyophthirius (Ich).

What is the best way to keep fish slime in aquarium?

Conditioners are good at supporting your fish’s natural slime coat. They help keep tank water in good condition so this could lead to healthier and longer lives for your finned friends. Most water conditioners won’t impact the pH level in your aquarium.

What is Tetra BettaSafe?

Tetra BettaSafe is a premium quality water conditioner that is specifically ideal for your betta. It works best in keeping your betta’s slime layer in a more excellent shape and the tank water is sure to become harmless and healthier for your aquarium dwellers.

What is API stress coat?

API Stress Coat is a substantial staple in aquarium maintenance. It helps in cycling a new tank and works wonders in eliminating chloramines and chlorine and it can amazingly detoxify heavy metals so it could considerably assist in making tap water harmless for your aquarium buddies.

What is natural rapport?

Natural Rapport Professional is preferred by many tank owners because it is regarded as an all-in-one product that is capable of immediately eliminating chlorine and works like magic when detoxifying chloramine, nitrites and other heavy metal metals present in the aquarium water. So, if you dream of getting rid of your fish tank chemicals issues at once, you need to invest in a high quality product like this one.

What is the best tap water conditioner?

API tap water conditioner can be considered as one of the best value for tap water treatments primarily because it is designed to significantly aid purify aquarium water that comes directly out of your tap. This product comes in a number of available bottle sizes so you can pick the one that’s suitable for your tank- the price varies too.

When to add water conditioner to aquarium?

You only utilize it when adding new water to the aquarium. Alternatively, you only add the conditioner when your aquarium has water inside it so you could determine the precise amount you are required to use. And, another appropriate period to add water conditioner is when you are installing a new aquarium.

What is the most important aspect of fishkeeping?

One of the most vital aspects of fishkeeping is the quality of the water in the tank. As you know, poor water quality could instantly lead to the ailment or death of the tank occupants that are unlucky enough to dwell in it.

What to do when you pull Lernea out of a fish?

When pulling Lernea out of a fish, a small chunk of flesh is sometimes removed, requiring the use of antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections . To prevent further infestations, the aquarium should be treated with salt or Dimilin to kill eggs and other life stages.

What causes holes in the head in fish?

Also known as “hole in the head” this disease is caused by the protozoan Hexamita and is most commonly seen in discus, oscars, severums and other cichlids such as angelfish, although it can infect any freshwater fish. Typical symptoms are cavities in the fish’s temples and along the lateral line. Another symptom is white, stringy feces. Hexamita often starts in the fish’s intestines and then spreads. Poor water quality is often a contributing factor for this disease. It is usually treated with metronidazole, also sold as Flagyl. The most effective treatment method is medicated food, but if the fish has stopped eating, metronidazole can be added directly to the aquarium.

How to treat ich?

There are several ways to treat Ich. If you’re relatively new to fishkeeping, the most effective and safest way is to use an aquarium-safe Ich medication. First, make sure the temperature of your aquarium is appropriate for the types of fish you keep (76° to 80° F for most tropical fish).

What is the ICH in an aquarium?

“Ich” (Pronounced ICK) is short for Ichthyopthirius multifiliis, the most common aquarium parasite. The most noticeable symptom of Ich is small raised white spots on the body and fins, however rapid breathing, rubbing against the decorations or gravel, twitching, or darting around the aquarium can be early indicators of an infection. Common triggers for the onset of Ich are a sudden drop in temperature caused by heater malfunction or adding cold water during a water change or introducing new fish. Incoming fish can be carriers of Ich without showing signs, but your aquarium can also have a latent population of parasites that existing fish have become resistant to. New fish additions are typically stressed and have lowered immune systems, making them more likely to become infected. Scaleless fish such as loaches, catfish, and eels, as well as silver-scaled fish such as silver dollars, hatchet fish and bala sharks tend to be more susceptible to ich, but all fish can be affected. If you think one of your fish might be infected, you will need to treat the entire aquarium, as Ich is highly contagious. The earlier you recognize Ich and begin treatment, the better your chances are of curing your fish.

How much less water does an aquarium hold?

Remember that after adding gravel and decorations, your aquarium holds 10% to 15% less actual water than its stated size! If repeated treatment is called for, perform a 20% water change and vacuum the gravel to remove parasites before each subsequent dose.

Why quarantine new fish?

Quarantining new fish greatly reduces the chance of introducing a disease organism into your aquarium and allows you to safely treat sick fish if necessary, without introducing chemicals to your show tank. A quarantine aquarium can also be used to isolate bullies or fish that are being picked on.

How to keep a disease free aquarium?

An effective way of maintaining a disease-free aquarium is to quarantine all new additions. While this may not be practical for every aquarist, it’s well worth the investment for those who keep high value fish such as discus, rare fish or dedicated planted aquariums where the use of medications is not recommended. Quarantining new fish greatly reduces the chance of introducing a disease organism into your aquarium and allows you to safely treat sick fish if necessary, without introducing chemicals to your show tank. A quarantine aquarium can also be used to isolate bullies or fish that are being picked on.

What are the diseases of fish?

Here are some of the most common aquarium fish diseases to look for: 1 Body Flukes – Caused by undesirable tank conditions, body flukes are tiny flatworms that eat away at the gills, fins, and skin of your fish. 2 Anchor Worms – Typically introduced to the tank by new fish, anchor worms are actually tiny crustaceans that burrow into the skin and enter the muscles. 3 Dropsy – Typically caused by a bacterial kidney infection, dropsy occurs when the fish becomes bloated and has trouble swimming properly. 4 Ick – Easily one of the most contagious aquarium fish diseases, ich is caused by tiny parasites that look like tiny white spots all over the skin. 5 Fungal Infection – Fish can be affected by fungus on many parts of the body and it often looks like a white cottony growth. Fish with fungal infections are more susceptible to other diseases. 6 Gill Flukes – These are flatworms that measure about 1mm long and typically affect the gills. Fish kept in poor water quality or overcrowded tanks are more likely to get this disease. 7 Fin Rot – Typically caused by a bacterial infection, fin rot can also affect your fish’s tail or mouth. You may notice fading color and fraying of the fins and tail. 8 Lice – You may not think of lice as a problem for aquatic animals, but they can affect fish. You’ll usually see restless behavior and see tiny pale dots crawling on your fish.

Why do fish have white spots on their skin?

Ick – Easily one of the most contagious aquarium fish diseases, ich is caused by tiny parasites that look like tiny white spots all over the skin. Fungal Infection – Fish can be affected by fungus on many parts of the body and it often looks like a white cottony growth.

What is the purpose of API salt?

API Aquarium Salt: Though technically not a medication, aquarium salt is used to treat a wide variety of aquarium fish diseases. It promotes general fish health as well as gill function and may speed recovery from disease.

How much Praziquantel powder should I add to my fish tank?

The praziquantel is mild to your fish while offering maximum impact on the worms infecting your fish and tank. To use just add 1 gram of Prazi-Cura quick acting powder to every 100 gallons of your tank water. The formula will paralyze and kill the worms while helping your fish shed them safely.

What are body flukes?

Body Flukes – Caused by undesirable tank conditions, body flukes are tiny flatworms that eat away at the gills, fins, and skin of your fish. Anchor Worms – Typically introduced to the tank by new fish, anchor worms are actually tiny crustaceans that burrow into the skin and enter the muscles.

Why do fish have rot?

Fish kept in poor water quality or overcrowded tanks are more likely to get this disease. Fin Rot – Typically caused by a bacterial infection, fin rot can also affect your fish’s tail or mouth. You may notice fading color and fraying of the fins and tail.

Can you add chemicals to an aquarium?

Always use caution when treating your aquarium for anything, including disease. Adding chemicals or medications to your tank can change the water chemistry which might have a negative impact on your fish more significant than the disease itself.

What is an Aquarium Filter?

Fish tank filters for freshwater or saltwater filter remove dirt, debris, discoloration, odor, ammonia, and nitrate through a filtration process. The Best Fish Tank Filter will remove all the impurities mentioned with a 3-stage filtration process called mechanical, chemical, and biological.

How does a Fish Tank Filter work?

Filters such as canister types contain a pump. This helps in taking water by high-pressure into a filter media. Sometimes, water from the under-gravel filter is redirecting to another canister filter for double filtration process. During this, we will notice that these best fish tank filters remove all impurities from the tank or aquarium in place.

Best types of Fish Tank Filters

Aquarium air filters or UV filter aquarium type work using bubbles that come out of an air pump to create water flow. For this filter to work, the water enters into a box that is see-through and goes through filter media, usually made with carbon filters, floss sleeves, and bio-filter to bring out all impurities.

Who Makes The Best Aquarium Filters in The Market?

Fluval is a leading brand in making the best filtration for large tanks like canister filters. They have successfully created a 125 gallon aquarium filter and other options like internal, external, skimmers, etc. All their products are of top-notch quality. There are branded replacement parts available for effective functioning always.

Functions of Fish Tank Filter System

This filtration process mostly happens last and is probably the main component of any 3-stage filtration process. Using this stage, we can remove ammonia and nitrates from water. A simple filtration does not suit the removal, and hence a special biotype filter medium is put to use.

How Often to Change Aquarium Filter?

In case of tank filters like hang-on type, it is best to change filter every 3-4 weeks at least. Also, make sure to wash off the filter casing during each replacement. All the filter media works better with full efficiency when cleaned frequently as well. There are filter media that do not require a change at all, like foam filters.

Maintenance, Problems, And Fixes Of Aquarium Filters

Change the cartridges when needed. There are battery operated fish tank filters that require the same methods of maintenance as well.

What is the best way to clean algae in a tank?

9. Windbells Magnetic Aquarium Algae Scraper. Another great option to keep your hands dry, this algae scrubber uses magnets to clean algae on the inside of the tank. Simply place the inner glass cleaning pad inside the tank and the handle outside the tank, moving it with your hand.

How to get rid of algae in aquarium?

Here are our top picks for the best products to remove aquarium algae: 1. Hygger Carbon Fiber 6-in-1 Algae Scraper.

What is UV sterilizer?

While many aquarium cleaning products rely on chemicals or your ongoing cleaning efforts, this UV sterilizer will help you keep your tank in top shape with less work on your part. This small, lightweight unit uses ultra-violet light to kill off unwanted single cell organisms including bacteria, algae, viruses and more.

What do you need to know about aquarium algae?

What You Need to Know About Aquarium Algae. Algae takes many different forms, but none of them are particularly desirable in your home aquarium. In addition to making your tank look dirty, algae can compete with live plants and other photosynthetic organisms for valuable nutrients.

What is Tetra Algae Control?

Tetra Algae Control Water Treatment . If you’re looking for an algae solution that won’t negatively affect your plants, try this water treatment. It combats existing aquarium algae and prevents its return in a gentle way. It works against green water, blue-green algae, diatoms, and even stubborn hair algae.

How to get rid of algae in a tank?

Perform routine water changes to remove detritus and other solid waste from the substrate in your tank as it decomposes it provides food for algae to grow. Place your tank in a location away from direct sunlight – the heat and light from the sun can increase algae growth.

How to keep algae under control?

Here are some tips to keep algae under control: Limit your tank lighting to 10 to 12 hours of broad-spectrum light per day – avoid leaving your lights on for too long or algae could grow out of control.

What is the best aquarium for freshwater?

The Marina LED Aquarium is one of the best freshwater aquariums for the money. It includes a 20-gallon tank, which makes pre-planning vital because of its greater weight. This kit has the basics, with a filter, heater, and LED hood. You’ll also find a fishnet, water conditioner, and a biological supplement.

How many fish per gallon of water?

The general rule-of-thumb is to plan on 1” of fish per gallon of water. Remember that you’re creating a closed space where your setup has to control the water quality and keep living conditions stable. Filling a tank with more fish than it can support will kill them. A 10-gallon tank is an excellent first aquarium.

Why are saltwater aquariums so expensive?

Then, there are the supplies, which are more expensive because they must be able to handle the salt. Our guide focuses on freshwater aquariums.

Do you need a heater for a tropical fish tank?

A heater ensures that the temperature stays in the optimal range for your fish. If the kit doesn’t include a heater, you’ll need to get one, especially if it’s a smaller tank.

Does Tetra Colorfusion have a filter?

The Tetra ColorFusion Aquarium is not a product for everyone because it pushes the bounds of what many may expect in a tank with its color-changing LEDs. The kit does include a filter, heater, thermometer, and hood. The manufacturer added water conditioning products. The tank’s size is ideal if you have the space.

Does a fishnet heat up water?

It won’t heat up the water, but it will provide pleasing low-light conditions for your aquarium. The kit also includes a fishnet, thermometer, water conditioner, and fish food. They’re helpful to have, but not all of them are high-quality products. However, the price is right to get you started.

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Best Aquarium Water Conditioner Reviews 2020

  • 1. API Tap Water Conditioner
    API tap water conditioner can be considered as one of the best value for tap water treatments primarily because it is designed to significantly aid purify aquarium water that comes directly out of your tap. This product comes in a number of available bottle sizes so you can pick the one th…
  • 2. Seachem Prime Fresh and Saltwater Conditioner
    Seachem Prime is a certified topnotch water conditioner for fish tank. As a matter of fact, this product is first rated for its effectiveness and reliability. It comes in six distinct sizes and it is sold at a very pocket-friendly price tag that is ideal for those who are on a budget. You won’t have an…
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What to Look For When Buying An Aquarium Water Conditioner

  • If you are filling your aquarium with well or tap water, then the use of a high quality water conditioner is especially required. It is essential to understand that tap water contains chemicals that even though they are risk-free for humans, could be perilous to tank inhabitants. Utilizing a water conditioner is an easy and efficient method to keep you finned friends safe, healthy and h…
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Other Important Factors to Consider

  • What is an aquarium water conditioner? Water conditioners for fish tanks commonly come in a liquid form and such products are comparably less costly. You can say that a conditioner is of premium quality when it is capable of getting rid of heavy metals and other hazardous materials from tap water, making the tank water fully livable for your tank occupants. They disintegrate th…
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the most trusted water conditioner brands? Some of the most trusted water conditioner brands that many aquarists and consumers prefer include the following: 1. Seachem Prime Fresh and Saltwater Conditioner 2. Tetra EasyBalance PLUS Water Conditioner 3. API Stress Coat 4. Tetra BettaSafe Water Conditioner 5. API Tap Water Conditioner Do water conditioners work inst…
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Conclusion

  • By the time you decide to keep an aquarium, you also need to accept the fact that keeping one is not smooth sailing. It is your sole responsibility to keep your fish tank safe and clean for your aquarium pets and one way to do so is to be able to pick the right water conditioner for your tank. Without any shadow of doubt, you cannot solely add tap water to the tank and expect the tank in…
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Prevention

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Virtually all fish diseases can be traced to stress, which weakens their immune systems. Sources of stress include shipping, poor water quality, improper water chemistry, inadequate filtration, improper diet, overcrowding, leaving the light on 24/7, injuries, aggression from other fish and inadequate habitat. To keep your fis…
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Quarantine

  • An effective way of maintaining a disease-free aquarium is to quarantine all new additions. While this may not be practical for every aquarist, it’s well worth the investment for those who keep high value fish such as discus, rare fish or dedicated planted aquariums where the use of medications is not recommended. Quarantining new fish greatly reduces the chance of introducing a diseas…
See more on aqueon.com

Ultra-Violet Sterilizers

  • Disease causing organisms exist in virtually every aquarium, but they will not infect fish if their numbers remain low and the fishes’ immune systems are functioning properly. Ultra-violet sterilizers kill disease-causing organisms as well as suspended algae and help keep water healthy and crystal clear. Coralife Turbo-Twist UV Sterilizers are avai...
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Recognition

  • In order to recognize problems that may arise, it’s helpful to have an understanding of what “normal” appearance and behavior are for your fish. Observe your fish regularly – feeding time is a good opportunity to do this. Look for white spots, cloudy eyes, bloody patches, a white body film or torn, ragged fins. Also, there are certain things fish never (or at least very rarely) do. For exam…
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Diseases

  • You can’t predict if or when your fish will get sick or what disease they might come down with, but it’s a good idea to be familiar with common ailments and their symptoms so you can quickly begin treatment if you think they may be infected. Being able to recognize problems and begin treatment early gives you the best chance of saving your fish!
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parasites

  • Ich
    “Ich” (Pronounced ICK) is short for Ichthyopthirius multifiliis, the most common aquarium parasite. The most noticeable symptom of Ich is small raised white spots on the body and fins, however rapid breathing, rubbing against the decorations or gravel, twitching, or darting around t…
  • Chilodonella
    This protozoan parasite produces similar symptoms to ick, such as labored breathing, gasping at the surface, clamped fins, heavy mucous secretion and scratching on objects in the aquarium. An outbreak of Chilodonella is often associated with poor water quality. Discus and young fish tend …
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Bacteria

  • Sometimes referred to as Fin and Tail Rot, bacterial infections are the second-most common diseases aquarium fish experience after parasites. They often follow parasite infestations, abrasions or physical injury, but can also be brought on by chronic exposure to poor water quality and/or poor diet. Removal of a fish’s protective mucous membrane or scales during netting is an…
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Fungi

  • True fungal infections in fish are less common than parasites or bacteria. They typically appear as white cottony or “furry” growths on fish but can also be internal. They can be induced by substandard water quality, infected food or open wounds, but there are many other causes. Although fungal infections are not generally contagious, infected fish should be treated immedia…
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Viruses

  • Viruses are tiny organisms that invade the fish’s cells and begin to replicate. They can be difficult to diagnose because they often produce similar symptoms to many other fish diseases. Viral infections are well documented in koi and goldfish as well as angelfish, but they can affect all aquarium fish. There are no known cures for viral infections. Fish that are suspected of having a …
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Dropsy

  • Also known as “pinecone disease” or Malawi bloat, dropsy is more a set of symptoms than an actual disease. It can be caused by a virus or bacterial infection of the kidney that results in fluid build-up in the fish’s abdomen, causing the fish to swell and the scales to stand on end, giving it the appearance of a pinecone. Treatment is dependent on what the cause is. While dropsy is no…
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