https://www.chewy.com/education/fish/general/guppy-disease-tetrahymena
Guppy disease, which primarily affects guppies but can also infect other fish like cichlids, catfish, and tetras, is a parasitic infection caused by ciliate protozoans.
It closely resembles ich, with fish developing white spot like cysts on their body and fins, along with symptoms such as heavy breathing, lethargy, and clamped fins.
Unlike ich, guppy disease progresses rapidly, often causing death within a very short time. The pathogens responsible, though not typically harmful under normal conditions, become dangerous when fish are stressed, poorly fed, or kept in subpar environmental conditions.
While medications that treat ich or velvet are often ineffective, some anti protozoan treatments can provide partial relief, though environmental improvements are crucial for managing the disease.
Prevention of guppy disease revolves around selecting healthy fish and maintaining optimal water conditions. New livestock should be quarantined for 4 to 6 weeks to monitor for signs of illness.
For guppies, a spacious aquarium (at least 15 gallons) with good water quality, hard and alkaline water, and, if possible, slightly brackish conditions is recommended.
Additionally, preventing aggression, such as keeping a proper male to female ratio, and using floating plants for hiding spaces can help minimize stress and physical damage that might trigger the disease.
Ensuring healthy fish, proper quarantine practices, and stress-free environments are key to preventing outbreaks of guppy disease.
Chewy editorial team offers guidance on identifying the condition, understanding its pathology and life cycle, and exploring treatment and prevention strategies - so you can better protect your guppies and other tank inhabitants from Guppy disease.
