Best Way to Get Rid of Ich
- Thread starter gcis
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echoofformless
Peat Advocate & Defender Of Snails
If you don't have shrimp or other inverts, Rid Ich + is the best of the blue meds.
But never underestimate the power of heat. Raising the temperature to about 86 speeds things along and also kills some weaker strains of the parasite. Some do only this along with aquarium salt.
It can't kill you to try all three. And remember that keeping the tank clean and healthy will do a whole lot more than one might think. I have rid myself of outbreaks in QT tanks just by raising the temperature and doing daily water changes. Healthier fish seem to fight it off more effectively and therefore the parasite stands less of a chance of having them as a host so it seems.
Finally, every strain is different so what works for one may not work for the others. And you are likely about to see a whole bunch of conflicting opinions as this thread gets more replies.
But never underestimate the power of heat. Raising the temperature to about 86 speeds things along and also kills some weaker strains of the parasite. Some do only this along with aquarium salt.
It can't kill you to try all three. And remember that keeping the tank clean and healthy will do a whole lot more than one might think. I have rid myself of outbreaks in QT tanks just by raising the temperature and doing daily water changes. Healthier fish seem to fight it off more effectively and therefore the parasite stands less of a chance of having them as a host so it seems.
Finally, every strain is different so what works for one may not work for the others. And you are likely about to see a whole bunch of conflicting opinions as this thread gets more replies.
I would only use chemicals and medication as a last resort or in serious cases. They aren't good for your fish in the long run. I would personally recommend the salt and temp method which can be found here:
http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=88601
Plus, a lot of Ich meds contain Malachite Green which will dye your aquarium silicone blue. Not a big deal, but that is certainly one advantage to using salt.
http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=88601
Plus, a lot of Ich meds contain Malachite Green which will dye your aquarium silicone blue. Not a big deal, but that is certainly one advantage to using salt.
Lupin
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- Sep 21, 2006
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I also prefer teh heat and salt method. I use 2 tsp/gallon of regular table salt, dissolved and added gradually. Good luck and let us know if you need any clarification.
I agree with Jinks..raise the temp and use Aquarium salt. I know someone who would use tablesalt to put in his tank. I was like WTH are you doing? Seasoning your fish for a fish fry? Good Luck
Can I use Salt when I have Mystery Snails?
I have 5 mystery snails in my tank. Can I still use the salt and temp method? Probably not right?
I have 5 mystery snails in my tank. Can I still use the salt and temp method? Probably not right?
Any sodium chloride is fine as long as it hasn't been treated with chemical additives like anti-caking agents. Most table salt is fine, I've also used table salt with no problems.
I've found out (the hard way) that the heat and salt work the best. Also don't forget to remove any carbon that you maybe using. And when things are cleared up, lower your temp slowly. You don't want to stress them and start the process all over again.