The Life Cycle
Ich has 3 stages: trophont (visible white spots on fish), tomont (drops off into substrate), theront (free-swimming, infects new fish).
Treatment must target the free-swimming stage. The protected cyst on fish is invulnerable to medication.
Heat Method (Most Effective)
Raise temperature to 86°F over 24 hours. Hold for 10-14 days. Heat accelerates the life cycle, exposing free-swimming stages faster.
Combine with extra aeration — warm water holds less oxygen.
- ✦Not all fish tolerate 86°F — research your species first
- ✦Goldfish and discus need different protocols (lower or higher temps)
- ✦Continue heat 7 days past last visible spot to kill final cysts
Salt Method
1 tablespoon per 5 gallons, dosed gradually over 24 hours. Hold for 10-14 days.
Effective for scaled fish. Skip for tetras, plecos, corys, scaleless catfish.
Medication Method
Copper-based meds (Cupramine, Copper Power) or formalin-malachite green (Rid-Ich Plus).
Remove activated carbon during treatment — it absorbs medication. Do partial water change between doses per label instructions.