Like everything else on this planet that lives and breathes, your aquarium fish get sick much like we do. Of course, they get different illnesses but they are prone to other diseases that probably make them feel as miserable as we feel when we're ill.

What Things Can Make Your Fish Sick?

Interestingly enough, the most frequent cause is stress! Stress has a way of making the immune system less effective whether it be in humans or fish. Stressed out fish can become sick from bacteria that is normally in the water - bacteria that normally would not harm them.

Causes Of Aquarium Stress

Your aquarium fish can get stressed out pretty easy. Any change in their tank environment and especially putting them in a new tank can really stress them out! That's why there are so many procedures in preparing a fish tank, adding something new or moving fish to a new location. You also must keep the tank water clean with frequent water changes. Taking care of your fish and tank properly will reduce stress and keep your fish healthy.

Signs That Your Fish Is Sick

One key sign is that your fish may seem a bit listless and not his usual self. Other signs are forced breathing, staying in one section of an aquarium for long periods of time, or even swimming into things as if it was having sight problems.

Restoring Aquarium Health

Since stress causes illness, the key to healthy fish is less stress! That means feeding the fish appropriate food, maintaining a clean aquarium, quarantining new fish, and reducing abrupt movements around the tank. By watching your fish's behavior and carefully monitoring how he or she reacts to new additions, you should be able to quickly determine what's making your fish feel stressed. Maybe your sick fish is reacting to a not-so-healthy plant. Or maybe a new fish or piece of decor just tips the balance too much.

The least stressful environment for your tropical fish is going to be the one that is closest to nature. If you can make your aquarium an optimum home for your fish, they will reward you with vibrant colors and many years of enjoyment.