This could prove invaluable for those that keep any species of fish that are particularly prone to Ich (Whitespot).

Raising the aquarium temperature may help combat in infectious disease in some (if not most) situations. Thermal treatment can be beneficial in one or more ways;

* Thermally-induced death of parasites. The protozoan parasites Ichthyophthirius and Ichthyobodo (costia) are normally unable to complete their life cycles above 28-30c (81-85f), so raising the temperature to just beyond this critical value for approx 1 week will effectively eradicate these parasites, assuming the affected fish species are able to tolerate this degree of heat (many cannot).

* Acceleration of parasite metabolism. Increasing the water temperature (even by 1-2 degrees) will generally speed up the life cycles of parasites, and thus shorten the periods spent at chemical-resistant stages (eg, cysts). When used in combination with a suitable chemical remedy or introduction of diluted aquarium salt, at the rate of 1 tablespoon per 5 gallons (19 Litres) during partial water changes, thermal treatments often effect a faster cure. (total dilution should not exceed 1 tablespoon per 5 gallons tank capacity)

* Increasing the waters temperature can sometimes influence a fish's ability to combat diseases - within physiological limits, the speed and efficiency of the immune response system increases with water temperature. Likewise, an increase in temperature may speed up the metabolic rate, helping the healing process.

After treatment the temperature should be returned to normal at a gradual rate, (over 4-5 days is recommended).

Remember higher temps means less oxygen in the water so more aeration may be needed to compensate, (via an air stone or additional surface agitation).

HTH