Most if not all diseases that affect ornamental fish derives from water condition, (some can also be caused from new fish introduction, always quarantine before introduction to major tank) the environment in which the fish lives is one where the fish passes all its waste in this environment which is the water, if there is not sufficient filtration both mechanical and bacterial, waste concentration above normal levels will result in your fish been stressed then ultimate internal, gills, fins or body damage, if not treated will result in death. These are some major diseases and symptoms that affect all types of ornamental fish; there are many commercial treatments on the market, check your local pet stores for further details.
Common aquarium diseases include the following:
| DISEASES | SYMPTOMS | TREATMENT |
| Fin Rot | Erosion at edges of fins | Improve water quality, remove fin-nippers and feed Vitamin C – enriched food. Use antifungal treatment to prevent secondary infections |
| Mouth Fungus | Cottony growth near jaws and loss of appetite | Improve water conditions. Use commercially available antibiotics |
| Swim Bladder Disorder | Inability to balance in the water | Check water temperature. A medical bath may help. |
| Skin or Gill Flukes | Laboured breathing, scraping against objects, abnormal gill function | Commercially available medication |
| Hole in the Head | Pale ulcerated area around head. | Commercial Medication or Foods containing Vitamin C. |
| Anchor Worm | Visible parasites attached to body leading to ulceration and irritation | Remove parasites with forceps and use medicated bath to prevent secondary infection. Insecticide may help |
JAMAICA ORNAMENTAL FISH 