Betta fish are one of the most popular aquarium species worldwide due to their incredible color and active behavior. However, they are very prone to various diseases. enfermedades which can compromise their well-being. Identifying any health problems early and applying the appropriate treatment is key to ensuring our fish's recovery. In this article, we will explore the most common betta fish diseases, their symptoms, causes, and how to treat them effectively.
How to detect if our betta fish is sick?
It is essential to closely observe the behavior and appearance of your betta fish to detect any changes that may be indicative of illness. Some of the most common symptoms of illness in bettas include:
- Inactivity: If you notice that your normally active fish is sitting still at the bottom of the tank or swimming with difficulty, this may indicate illness.
- Color loss: A sick betta may show a discoloration on their skin and fins.
- Lack of appetite: Loss of interest in food is a clear sign of illness.
- Difficulties when swimming: The fish may float face up or move erratically.
- Whiteheads or spots: Presence of fungi or parasites visible on the skin.
- Frayed fins: It may be a sign of a bacterial infection.
Fungus in betta fish
Mushrooms are one of the enfermedades Most common in bettas and usually appear due to stress, unhealed wounds or poor water conditions in the aquarium.
Fungal symptoms
- Presence of a cottony white coating on the body or fins.
- Slow movements or lethargy.
- waste of appetite.
- Irritation and rubbing against aquarium objects.
Treatment for fungus
- Aquarium cleaning: Change 50% of the water and clean the fixtures with hot water to remove fungal spores.
- Use of fungicides: Apply specific antifungal treatments for fish following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Does it improve the water quality: Keep the water clean and at a stable temperature between 24-27ºC.
- Salt baths: Adding small doses of aquarium salt can help eliminate fungus.
Bacterial infection: fin rot
One of the most serious diseases in bettas is fin rot, usually caused by bacteria that develop in poorly hygienic aquariums.
Symptom
- Frayed or chewed-up fins.
- Loss of color in the fins.
- Inactivity and lethargy.
- Presence of a mucous layer on the fins.
Treatment
- Use of antibacterials: Medications such as erythromycin or tetracycline may be effective.
- Aquarium cleaning: Perform a 50% water change and clean any debris from the bottom.
- Increase temperature: Maintain the temperature between 26 and 28ºC to boost the fish's immune system.
- Providing a balanced diet: Make sure your fish receives quality food to strengthen its immune system.
Oodinium or velvet disease
Oodinium is a parasite that causes a serious disease in bettas, known as "velvet" due to the golden or velvety appearance that the fish's skin takes on.
Symptom
- Presence of golden flecks on the body.
- Loss of appetite.
- Erratic swimming.
- Constant scratching against aquarium objects.
Treatment
- Turn off the aquarium lights: The parasite reproduces with light, so leaving the aquarium in the dark is an effective strategy.
- Heat the water: Raising the temperature to 29ºC helps combat the parasite.
- Using copper sulphate: Drugs such as Seachem's Cupramine are effective.
- Perform frequent water changes: Reduce parasitic load.
Internal parasites in betta fish
Internal parasites in betta fish are difficult to detect until the disease is advanced, so it is important to watch for certain symptoms.
Symptom
- Weight loss for no apparent reason.
- Long, white droppings.
- Poor appetite
- swollen belly
Treatment
- Use of antiparasitics: Medicines such as metronidazole or praziquantel may be effective.
- Bath with salt: A salt water bath helps to relieve the parasite load.
- Improve nutrition: Providing nutrient-rich food strengthens the immune system.
Proper betta care involves keeping the tank clean, providing a balanced diet, and watching for any signs of illness. Detecting symptoms early and applying specific treatments is key to avoiding serious problems and ensuring a long, healthy life for your betta.
