Seachem Cupramine is a highly effective, buffered active copper treatment for external parasites such as Amyloodinium (Marine Velvet) and Ichthyophthirius (Ich). Unlike traditional copper sulfate or chelated copper treatments, Cupramine utilizes a unique ionic form that is fully active at low concentrations while remaining remarkably safe for fish. It is the preferred choice for professional aquarists and hobbyists alike due to its stability and ease of removal.
Cupramine is engineered to provide a wide therapeutic window, making it effective against parasites while minimizing stress on your livestock.
Buffered Ionic Copper: Stays in solution longer and more consistently than copper sulfate, providing a stable treatment environment.
Low Toxicity to Fish: It is less toxic to fish than chelated copper or copper salts, making it safer for sensitive species.
Fully Active: Because it is not chelated, it is 100% active at a concentration of 0.2 mg/L, whereas other copper brands require higher, more dangerous levels.
Non-Acidic: Unlike many copper treatments, Cupramine will not significantly impact the pH of your aquarium water.
Easily Removable: Can be quickly and completely removed from the water column using activated carbon or chemical resins like CupriSorb.
Is Cupramine safe for reef tanks? No. Like all copper-based medications, Cupramine is highly toxic to invertebrates, corals, and elasmobranchs (sharks and rays). It should only be used in a fish-only quarantine or hospital tank.
How do I dose Seachem Cupramine? Remove all chemical filtration (carbon, resins) and turn off UV sterilizers. Use 1 mL (20 drops) per 40 L (10 US gallons) on the first day, wait 48 hours, and repeat the dose. This brings the concentration to 0.5 mg/L.
How long should the treatment last? A typical treatment cycle lasts 14 days. Always use a reliable copper test kit to ensure levels stay within the therapeutic range of 0.2–0.5 mg/L.
Seachem MultiTest Copper: The only test kit recommended to accurately measure the unique ionic copper found in Cupramine.
Seachem CupriSorb: The most effective resin for removing Cupramine from your system once the treatment cycle is complete.
Seachem StressGuard: Use during and after treatment to help repair fish slime coats and reduce the stress caused by parasitic infections.
