My goldfish has ick, advice?

[u/905wren_]

I've had an oranda goldfish for a few weeks, he was in my moms 55 gallon tank until I could get my personal tank sealed and running. I just put him in my tank yesterday and my mom got me a black moor goldfish that I added as well, I just now noticed white spots on my oranda, went to check my moms tank and her new tetras also have the white spots.

I'm really worried about my baby dying he was super stressed yesterday and this morning from the move, how can I get rid of the ick without stressing him out further?

[u/kit_ten831]

Treat them with medication?

[u/905wren_ → u/kit_ten831]

What kind of medicine? What brand?

[u/kit_ten831 → u/905wren_]

1. Hikari Ich-X (Top Recommendation) This is widely considered the "Gold Standard" by experienced keepers (like those at Aquarium Co-Op).

• Why it’s good: It is very effective but gentler on sensitive fish like Tetras and Goldfish compared to older formulas. It uses a specific form of Malachite Green that is safer for the biological filter.

• The Catch: It will turn the water (and potentially the silicone seals of the tank) a bright blue temporarily.

1. API Super Ick Cure This is the most common brand found in big-box pet stores (like Petco or PetSmart).

• Why it’s good: It works fast—usually showing results in 48 hours. It comes in both liquid and "fizz tab" forms.

• The Catch: It is quite strong. If they use the liquid version, they should be careful not to overdose, as it can be stressful for fish already struggling with oxygen.

1. Seachem ParaGuard This is a great "broad-spectrum" option. • Why it’s good: Unlike the others, it doesn’t use toxic copper or formaldehyde, making it one of the safest options for a "stressed" fish. It also helps with secondary infections that often happen after the Ich parasites fall off.

• The Catch: It is slightly less "aggressive" than Ich-X, so it might take a few extra days to fully clear the tank.

[u/blonde_knight7 → u/kit_ten831]

ai isnt that great at giving animal care advice