From the Research
To treat Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis) in aquarium fish, the most effective treatment is to use a peracetic acid-based formulation, such as hydrogen peroxide, peracetic, acetic, and peroctanoic acid-based product, at a low dose of 8-15 mg/l for a short window of exposure of 60 minutes, as it has been shown to kill nearly all free-living stages of I. multifiliis with approximately 100% mortality 1. This treatment has been shown to be highly effective in eliminating the free-living stages of I. multifiliis, including theronts, tomonts, and cysts, and has the potential to control I. multifiliis infections in commercial aquacultural systems. Some key points to consider when treating Ich include:
- Raising the water temperature to 86°F (30°C) gradually over 24 hours and maintaining it for at least 10 days to speed up the parasite's life cycle
- Adding aquarium salt at 1-3 teaspoons per gallon for freshwater tanks to stress the parasites
- Using medication, such as formalin-based treatments like Ich-X, following the package instructions precisely
- Removing carbon filtration during treatment and performing a 25% water change before each medication dose
- Continuing treatment for 7-10 days even after spots disappear to kill emerging parasites It is also important to note that Ich is highly contagious, so quarantine infected fish and treat the entire tank as the parasite has multiple life stages, including a free-swimming phase that can infect other fish 2, 3, 4. Additionally, the tolerance of fish to different disinfectants, such as benzalkonium chloride, formalin, malachite green, and potassium permanganate, should be considered when selecting a treatment option, as some disinfectants may be more toxic to certain species of fish than others 5.