The fish start growing small white pin-prick like growths on their fins or skin and this is often mistaken for infection by Ichthyophthirius multifiliis in the early stages.
This virus appears to present itself as lesions at differing locations depending on the species of fish being attacked, often complicating initial diagnosis.
); on the side flanks of walleye, sauger and flounder; on head or tail areas of common goldfish, and oranda variants.
Otherwise, some aquarists recommend surgery to remove the affected area if it is very serious, followed by an antibiotic bath treatment to prevent a secondary bacterial infection of the open wounds.
Usually the best cure is to simply give the fish a stress-free life, a weekly bacteria treatment and the virus will slowly subside and the fins will repair themselves.