Rescuing Dragon Fish with Sunken Eyes: What to Do?

Section 1: Causes of Dragon Fish Eye Sunkenness

The sunken eyes in dragon fish are predominantly caused by a decline in the quality of their living environment, with only a few cases being attributed to bacterial infections. When the symptoms of sunken eyes are mild, they can usually be effectively treated by increasing the water temperature, changing the water frequently, and ensuring adequate oxygenation. However, for more severe cases, medication may be necessary to complement the treatment.

Section 2: Treatment Methods for Dragon Fish Eye Sunkenness

1. Increase Water Temperature: If you notice sunken eyes in your dragon fish, consider slightly raising the water temperature. While 24℃ to 28℃ is the ideal range for maintaining dragon fish, higher temperatures can be more beneficial during illness. Therefore, to enhance the healing process, you might raise the water temperature to 30℃ to 32℃ and maintain this level until the fish recovers.

2. Frequent Water Changes: Increase the frequency of water changes to remove polluted water. Aim to change the water 2 to 3 times, replacing no more than onethird of the old water each time. Afterward, add an equal amount of fresh, sunexposed water.

3. Enhance Oxygen Levels: Insufficient oxygen in the water can also lead to sunken eyes in dragon fish. When you notice the eyes sinking, ensure that the water is welloxygenated by using an oxygen pump to supply the necessary oxygen. Typically, these measures can help restore the sunken eyes over time. However, if the condition is severe and these methods are insufficient, additional medication may be needed. This can include adding antibacterial agents, such as oxytetracycline, to the fish tank. Alternatively, introducing a sufficient amount of nitrobacter can also be effective. These treatments can significantly aid in the recovery of the fish's eyes. It's important to avoid feeding the dragon fish during the medication period.

Tip from Oxygen Pet Doctor: Dragon fish thrive in slightly acidic water. Therefore, when changing the water in the tank, remember to add a small amount of salt after introducing new water to help maintain the pH balance.