i was blessed with rugged and hardy scales. my natural slime keeps microbes from infiltrating, and if i get too slimy - i add some epsom salts to my tank. that seems to do a good job. unfortunately my scales are very dull and boring - i really envy fish with RAINBOW scales!! but i know if i had them, i wouldn't be able to maintain them.. who has time to toothbrush scrub every scale?? I have a LIFE!!!