Betta fish diseases: symptoms, prevention and treatment

  • Betta fish are prone to various diseases caused by bacteria, fungi and parasites.
  • Prevention, through a clean aquarium and proper nutrition, is essential to avoid diseases.
  • If symptoms such as wounds, pale color or lack of activity are detected, immediate action should be taken.
Rosa Sanchez

3 minutes

Betta fish

El Betta fish It is one of the most popular species in home aquariums and, at the same time, one of the most prone to suffer illnessesWith proper care, many of these diseases can be prevented or treated in time. In this article, we will show you the main diseases that affect Betta fish, their symptoms, and how to treat them effectively.

1. Fungal disease or fungal infection

This disease occurs when fish are exposed to poor quality water, open wounds or prolonged stress. It is easy to identify by the appearance of white cotton-like areas in his body.

Betta fish with fungal infection

Symptom

  • Appearance of cottony white spots on the skin and fins.
  • Red and irritated skin.
  • Lack of appetite and lethargy.

Prevention and treatment

  • Keep the water clean and well filtered.
  • Add aquarium salt in small doses to prevent fungal proliferation.
  • Baths in potassium permanganate o Methylene blue to treat infection.
  • Isolate sick fish to prevent spread.

2. Popeye's eye

El Popeye's eye It is caused by bacterial infections or poor water quality and is characterized by the large bulging of one or both eyes of the Betta fish.

Betta fish with Popeye eye

Symptom

  • Swollen or bulging eyes.
  • Low activity and loss of appetite.

Prevention and treatment

  • Change the water frequently to avoid bacterial infections.
  • Add antibiotics approved for aquariums.
  • Improve fish feeding with vitamin enriched food.

3. Ich or white spot disease

This is one of the most common diseases in Betta fish and is due to a microscopic parasite called Ichthyophthirius multifiliis. This parasite causes the appearance of small white dots throughout the body of the fish.

Betta fish with Ich

Symptom

  • Presence of white dots on the body, fins and gills.
  • The fish rubs against the aquarium decorations.
  • Rapid breathing and lack of appetite.

Prevention and treatment

  • Increase water temperature to 28-30°C to speed up the parasite cycle.
  • Using medications with green malachite o formalin according to product directions.
  • Perform frequent water changes and clean the bottom of the aquarium.

4. Dropsy

La dropsy It is a serious disease that affects the fish's renal system, causing its belly to swell due to fluid buildup.

Betta fish with dropsy

Symptom

  • Extremely swollen abdomen.
  • Raised scales with a "pineapple" appearance.
  • Lethargy and loss of appetite.

Prevention and treatment

  • Avoid feeding contaminated food.
  • Remove any sick fish from the aquarium immediately.
  • Manage antibiotics y salt baths as therapy.

5. Fin rot

This disease is caused by bacteria which damage the fins and tail of the Betta fish, causing its progressive decomposition.

Betta fish with fin rot

Symptom

  • Frayed or eroded fins and tail.
  • Dark color on the edges of the fins.
  • Decreased activity.

Prevention and treatment

  • Keep a clean aquarium and with good water circulation.
  • Add antibacterials such as erythromycin.
  • Avoid stress and harassment from other fish.

The Betta fish is a beautiful and hardy animal, but it requires specific care to avoid diseases. Keeping a Clean and well-balanced aquarium, providing a proper diet and being alert to any signs of illness is key to ensuring their well-being and longevity.