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My goldfish has white and red spots on fins and body. Why are they dying?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish

My gold fish got white spots on her fins and body and she has got red spots also. The white thing looks like fungus. 7 of my fishes died due to this. They became slow and just sat down and slowly died. Just one left plzz help. What can I do?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on September 16th, 2018

This problem could be due to a fungal or bacterial infection, but certainly a more radical approach is required. Begin by submitting a water sample for quality testing. Most pet stores will do this for free or a nominal fee. Clinical examination should always include a water quality check, even if you have done so already. Water testing should be performed with a quality test kit, measuring NH4, NO2 and NO3. High ammonia levels, PH imbalances may be responsible for these signs. Oxygen concentration and quality of the filters should be determined as well. If water quality is good and there are no major imbalances, your fish should get examined to look for any sign of bacterial/fungal infection and eventually water should be treated. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Todd Cecil

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 18th, 2018

    Thanks for reaching out about your fish. First of all, heck the water quality for pH, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. Correct any concerns. If no new fish, invertebrates or live plants have been added, the likelihood of parasites is minimal. Bacterial overgrowths in the water column can also cause red fins, white spots and lethargic fish. This probably needs to be diagnosed by a veterinarian. If the water temperature has gotten cooler/cold, try heating up slowly to around 68-70 degrees. This may help stimulate the immune system. Good luck.

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