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How to treat koi fish with flashing, torn fins, and inactivity?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Male | unneutered | 0.5 lbs

Hello, all my koi fish are becoming sick. They're demonstrating a behavior called flashing. No, they don't have visible parasites like anchor worm or fish lice so it had to a disease. Their fins are also getting torn up. They die from slowly becoming more and more inactive. Do you have any products that can help fight against this.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on October 15th, 2017

Consider a broad spectrum treatment such as General Cure by API or Parasite Clear by Jungle Labs. Follow label directions. Plain aquarium salt (NOT table salt) can be used concurrently to aid in healing and to treat minor infection and fin rot. Dissolve up to one tablespoon per gallon of water into a cup of tank water and gently pour it into the tank. Test water chemistry using a home test kit or submitting a water sample. Most pet or fish stores will do this for free or for a nominal fee. Correct any imbalances using aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent further stress or shock. Use a conditioner such as StressCoat as well. Confirm adequate filtration to maintain water quality.

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