Fin problem

Question
Hi Karen,
I have a 10 gal. freshwater tank - my first tank.  Anyway I have two lovely goldfish - I'm sure there are different kinds but all I know is I got them at Wal*Mart and they have pretty, flowing fins.  One of my fish has white spots on her sides and on her tail fin.  I've heard of fin rot, is this what she has?  What do I do?

Heather

Answer
Dear Heater,
Fin rot can be a problem especially fish with flowing fins, but it sounds like your goldfish have ICK or white spot parasites. This illness's most obvious symptom is white spots like a sprinkling of salt anywhere on a fishes body. Fortunately this is the easiest illness to treat, but if allowed to progress can result in the loss of the fish.

Ick or white spot parasites go through a particular lifecycle that is important to know because only at a certain time are they suceptible to medications. First, Ick parasites attach themselves in a protective covering on the poor fish's body. Later, they drop off down into the gravel or substrate and begin to multiply into the thousands. Then later on they become many more free-swimming parasites whom are now in search of a new fish to attack. Only when the parasites are free-swimming are they destroyed by medications.
Oftentimes when the parasites drop off they completely dissapear from the fish's body and the aquarist thinks their beloved little fish are better. But this isn't the case and is why it is vital to continue treating the aquarium for the full length of recommended treatment period even if the white spots dissapear one day. For they could be in the gravel and multiplying and preparing for another attack on the poor fish.

*~I have found the best ICK or white spot medication that i've used with goldfish and other fish sucessfully is "Quick-cure" Always read directions carefully as with all meds. I have also found it is good to change 50% of the aquarium water (include lots of a gravel siphoning) everyday which helps both to relieve stress on the goldfish and helps remove excess parasites in the water. Remember to always make the replacement water equal in temperature to that of your aquarium and insure it is dechlorinated with a water conditioner everytime.

White spot is easy to treat and you shouldn't have a problem sucessfully treating it. If you have any further questions, feel free to write me...I am always glad to help.

Only my very best wishes to you and your goldfish!
Karen~