fins of my betta are damaged

[dixon]

Hey, so I've been dealing with this koi plakat issue for a couple of days now - noticed some holes in his fins, then a chunk of his bottom fin was just gone. Is this fin rot? I'm freaking out, need some help here.

My water params are:
pH: 8.1
Ammonia: 0 ppm
Nitrites: 0 ppm
Nitrates: 7 ppm

I recently got the hang of that nitrate test, and two weeks ago my nitrates were a crazy 30 ppm. Been doing regular 20-30% water changes, and just got it down to 7 ppm after today's change - could this be the culprit?

He's in a 10-gallon tank with a chilli rasbora, a java loach, a nerite snail, and some pest snails (I know, I know, bad stocking).

Anyone have any ideas?

I've got some pics:

[dixon]

I did a water change earlier today and checked the nitrates, which is why the results are current, but the rest of the water parameters are from the 4th of October.

[whetu]

I'm thinking the pH might be a bit off, needs to be closer to 7.0.

[dixon]

I'm thinking the pH might be a bit off, needs to be closer to 7.0.

The pH is really high, I know. It's the same as my tap water, to be honest. I've always been told it's better to keep the pH stable, rather than trying to change it drastically. Not sure what to do about it, though. I'd rather not use any pH down chemicals if I can help it.

[whetu]

I'm sure some of the more experienced Betta keepers will chime in soon with some helpful advice.

[dixon]

I'm thinking the pH might be a bit off, needs to be closer to 7.0.

Honestly, I'm really struggling with the high pH. It's annoying, haha. I'd love to find a stable way to lower it, but I'm not sure where to start. I've heard of people using pH down chemicals, but I'd rather not go that route. Any advice would be great.

[whetu]

I'm a big fan of using plants to naturally adjust pH levels, they're great for softening the water too. Adding peat can help lower the pH over time. I've found it's all about patience, as it doesn't happen overnight. Some other members might have different approaches, but I've always had good luck with this method. One thing to keep in mind is to use a natural substrate like natuflake or neutflake base in the tank, avoid using anything like crushed coflake or limestone as it can actually drive the pH up.

[whetu]

I've found that having a lot of plants in the tank can really help shift the pH. I'm talking like 30-50% of the tank covered in plants. It's not just about the pH though, plants also help soften the water, which is great for your fish. Adding some peat to your filter can also help drive the pH down over time. Just make sure you've got a neutral base in the tank, like a natural substrate, and avoid using anything like crushed coral or limestone.

[dixon]

I've been thinking of a tank revamp anyway, it's pretty rough as it is. Your suggestions are actually motivating me to save up and do it right this time, thanks.

[florap]

I just thought I'd mention that betta are usually best kept alone, being solitary and all. No big deal if you already knew that. I've had a couple of koi plakats before and really liked them, so if I were to get another betta, I'd probably go for another one of these.