Expert: Michael Freynet - 11/9/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi, i have recently had trouble with white spot in my biorb containing 10 neon tetras and one male betta. I have been treating the disease with protozin, however the neon tetras have all died. However the betta appears to be responding to the treatment and the white dust covering his fins is disappearing and he appears far more lively and less lethargic. I was wondering how long the course of treatment should last for and how long i should leave it before doing a water change and eventually rebuild the stock in the tank. I was thinking of adding platys or black widows?

ANSWER: I need to know how many gallons is your aquarium and how long has it been set up?

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: it is a 8 gallon tank and has been set up for 3 months now.

Ali

Answer
Well first thing first you should know the general rule of stocking fish. For every 1 inch of fish there should be 1 gallon of water minimum! The reason your fish probably contracted ick(a parasite commonly known as white spot) is due to stress from either being cramped or moderately high toxicity levels. Keep in mind those small water volumes (8 gallons) accumulate with toxicity due to fish waste much faster than larger tanks. Make sure your doing weekly 25% water changes.
  The best and safest way to get rid of ick is to add some aquarium salt to your water. Add one tablespoon of API aquarium salt per gallon of water. The salinity will kill the ick within a week.
  If you do decide to get Platies later on make sure to get nothing but females as they are prolific breeders and you do not want overpopulation problems in your small aquarium. Do not buy any Black Widow(also known as Black Skirt) Tetras as they will nip your Bettas fins off.