https://www.chewy.com/education/fish/general/freshwater-velvet-disease
Freshwater velvet, also known as gold dust disease, is a common parasitic infection in aquarium fish, easily recognized by a metallic or velvety golden sheen on the fish's body, caused by photosynthetic parasites.
Unlike freshwater ich, which forms white cysts on fish, freshwater velvet affects the gills first, leading to symptoms like "flashing" (rubbing against objects), rapid breathing, lethargy, loss of appetite, and clamped fins.
This disease weakens the fish's skin, making them more susceptible to secondary infections and osmotic stress, which impacts their ability to regulate water and salt balance.
The parasites reproduce in the aquarium water, where their free-living stages can infect other fish if not treated quickly.
Treatment of freshwater velvet involves medications that target the free-swimming parasite stages, though some treatments like copper and quinine can be toxic to certain fish and invertebrates.
An alternative method involves raising the aquarium temperature, adding salt, and keeping the tank in darkness to prevent the parasites from photosynthesizing.
This combination stresses the parasites and speeds up their life cycle, ultimately helping to eliminate the infection.
Prevention includes quarantining new fish for several weeks and maintaining a stable environment, as weakened fish with compromised immune systems are more susceptible to the disease.
Healthy aquarium conditions and proper fish care are key to preventing outbreaks of freshwater velvet.
Chewy editorial team provides you with valuable insights into recognizing, preventing, and managing freshwater velvet, helping you to maintain a healthier aquarium environment for your fishes.
