Dropsy (edema) is a fish disease where fluid accumulates in the body cavity, causing the abdomen to swell and scales to protrude (pinecone appearance). Usually a symptom of bacterial kidney infection or organ failure.
Bacterial infection (typically Aeromonas), poor water quality over time, parasites, or genetic predisposition.
Always treat in a separate quarantine tank.
Maintain pristine water (zero ammonia/nitrite, low nitrate), feed varied diet, avoid stress.
Swollen abdomen. Scales standing out from the body (pinecone effect). Bulging eyes.
Bacterial infection (typically Aeromonas), poor water quality over time, parasites, or genetic predisposition.
Kanamycin + Maracyn 2: Combo treatment in hospital tank for 7-10 days. Most effective for early-stage dropsy.
Maintain pristine water (zero ammonia/nitrite, low nitrate), feed varied diet, avoid stress.
High - often fatal if pinecone effect is visible
Browse the full disease database for 45 aquarium conditions with treatment protocols, or check the care library for prevention-focused husbandry guides. Use our symptom matcher to rank likely diseases from observed signs, the water parameter checker to diagnose related water-quality issues, or the QT timeline calculator to plan a treatment schedule.