White Spots on Betta Fish: Ich Treatment Guide

**Quick Answer:** White spots on your betta fish are most likely Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis), a common parasite infection. Treat by gradually raising tank temperature to 30°C and using medication like Blue Planet White Spot Remedy. Complete treatment takes 7-10 days, continuing for 3 days after spots disappear to ensure all parasites are eliminated.

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What is Ich?

Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis) is a parasitic infection that affects freshwater fish, including bettas. The parasite has a complex life cycle that includes attaching to fish, feeding on their tissue, dropping off to reproduce, and then reattaching to continue the cycle.

The white spots you see are actually the parasites embedded in your betta's skin and fins. Each spot is an individual parasite that will eventually fall off to reproduce hundreds of new parasites if left untreated.

Symptoms

Small white spots resembling salt or sugar grains on body, fins, and gills

Fish rubbing against decorations, gravel, or plants (known as "flashing")

Clamped fins held close to the body

Rapid or laboured breathing

Lethargy and reduced swimming activity

Loss of appetite

Hiding behaviour more than usual

Causes

Introducing new fish without proper quarantine

Adding plants, decorations, or water from infected tanks

Sudden temperature drops that stress fish and weaken their immune system

Poor water quality with high ammonia or nitrite levels

Overcrowded tank conditions

Stress from aggressive tankmates or inadequate hiding places

Treatment Steps

1. **Raise water temperature gradually** - Increase to 30°C (86°F) over 24 hours to speed up the parasite's life cycle

2. **Add medication** - Use Blue Planet White Spot Remedy ($15-20 at Petbarn) or API Super Ick Cure ($18-25 at Aquarium Spare Parts Adelaide)

3. **Remove carbon filtration** - Carbon will absorb medication, making it ineffective

4. **Perform daily water changes** - Change 25% of water before each dose of medication

5. **Continue treatment** - Treat for at least 3-5 days after all visible spots disappear

6. **Monitor water parameters** - Keep ammonia and nitrite at 0ppm during treatment

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Prevention

Quarantine all new fish for 2-4 weeks before adding to main tank

Maintain stable water temperature between 26-28°C for bettas

Perform regular water tests and weekly 25% water changes

Disinfect nets, siphons, and other equipment between tanks

Treat plants with a mild potassium permanganate solution before adding to tank

Maintain optimal water parameters (0ppm ammonia/nitrite, <20ppm nitrate)

When to Worry

If your betta shows signs of severe infection (body covered in spots, extreme lethargy, refusing to eat for more than 2 days), you should take immediate action. Advanced Ich infections can damage gills and lead to secondary bacterial infections. If your fish is gasping at the surface or has cloudy patches developing alongside the white spots, this indicates a serious condition requiring prompt treatment. In severe cases, consider using a stronger medication like Seachem ParaGuard ($25-35 at specialist stores in Adelaide).

Common Questions

**How long is the Ich life cycle?**

At normal temperatures (24-26°C), the Ich life cycle takes about 7 days. At higher temperatures (30°C), it completes in just 3-4 days. Treatment must continue through multiple life cycles to be effective.

**Can I use salt instead of medication to treat Ich?**

Yes, aquarium salt (1 tablespoon per 19 litres) can be effective for mild infections. However, for moderate to severe cases, commercial medications are more reliable. Always dissolve salt completely before adding to the tank.

**Will Ich go away on its own?**

Rarely. Without treatment, Ich typically worsens and can be fatal as parasites damage the fish's skin, gills, and compromise their immune system.

**Can Ich spread to other fish in my tank?**

Absolutely. Ich is highly contagious and will spread to all fish in the tank. Always treat the entire aquarium, not just the visibly affected fish.

**Is my betta contagious to humans or other pets?**

No, fish Ich cannot infect humans, dogs, cats, or other non-fish pets. It's specific to fish.

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