The main reasons why parrotfish turn white are as follows:
Lack of Pigment: Parrotfish produce relatively little pigment on their own. If pigment supplementation is not paid attention to in daily life, their body color will become lighter. Pigment synthesis can be assisted by feeding color-enhancing feeds such as brine shrimp and bloodworms.
Water Quality Problems: Improper water quality, for example, when the pH value of the water is not between 6.0 and 7.0, or when the water temperature is too low (below 20 °C), will cause parrotfish to fade in color. The water quality should be kept slightly acidic and soft, and the water temperature should be between 28 °C and 30 °C.
Environmental Changes: Changes in the new environment or water quality will trigger the stress response of parrotfish, resulting in their body color turning white. It usually takes 3 to 7 days for parrotfish to adapt to the new environment.
Diseases: Parrotfish may turn white due to diseases such as saprolegniasis and enteritis. Careful examination and symptomatic treatment are required.
Being Frightened: Parrotfish will also turn white when they are frightened. Usually, their color will recover after the fright passes.
Treatment Methods Include:
Adjusting Water Quality and Temperature: Keep the water quality slightly acidic and soft, and the water temperature between 28 °C and 30 °C.
Feeding Color-Enhancing Feeds: Regularly feed color-enhancing feeds such as brine shrimp and bloodworms, and avoid single and inferior fish foods.
Adapting to the New Environment: Let parrotfish adapt to the new environment and avoid sudden changes in water quality or temperature.
Symptomatic Treatment: Conduct symptomatic treatment according to the type of disease, and the body color will recover after the fish recovers from the illness.