Healthy animals can usually resist infections. Finrot usually begins as a mild external infection causing a reddening of the base of the fins. In severe cases, the animal's body and mouth may be eaten away. If this does not correct the problem, the animal should be treated with antibiotics in a hospital tank. Adding antibiotics to the main aquarium can kill invertebrates and damage the biological filter .
Stress breaks down the protective mucous coating on a fish and allows bacteria to gain a foothold.
The use of an ultraviolet sterilizer may help prevent outbreaks of this disease. This disease is usually associated with stress, sometimes brought on by poor water quality. Healthy animals can usually resist infections. If this does not correct the problem, the animal should be treated with antibiotics in a hospital tank. Adding antibiotics to the main aquarium can kill invertebrates and damage the biological filter .