Dropsy (fish disease)
Dropsy is a condition in fish caused by the buildup of fluid inside the body cavity or tissues. As a symptom rather than a disease in its own right, it can indicate a number of underlying diseases, including bacterial infections, parasitic infections, or liver dysfunction.[1]
A goldfish with fish dropsy
Symptoms
- Swelling of the abdomen
- Eyes that are beginning to swell and bulge
- Scales that starting to point outward instead of lying flush with their body giving a "pinecone" appearance
- A loss of color in their gills
- Clamping of the fins
- A curve developing in their spine
- Pale feces
- Swelling near their anus
- A loss of appetite
- A lack of energy and movement
Treatment
Because dropsy is a symptom of an illness, its cause may or may not be contagious. However, it is standard practice to quarantine sick fish to prevent spreading the underlying cause to the other fish in the tank community.[1]
Prognosis
By the time a disorder reaches the point of causing dropsy, it can often be fatal and at the very least the fish is very ill and requires immediate quarantine and treatment.[1]
References
- David Alderton (2003). Freshwater Aquariums: Basic Aquarium Setup and Maintenance. p. 129. ISBN 1-931993-11-4.
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