Injured betta fish

[fabletta]

I'm new here, still getting the hang of things.

My betta's been with me for a bit over a few weeks now. A few days back, I noticed some missing scales, but since it didn't seem to get any worse, I figured he was on the mend. That was until today when I saw this red spot above his lip.

Should I be getting worried about this? Is there anything else I can do to help him out, aside from doing regular water changes?

[SeaBidder]

Hey there, welcome to the forum. I'd love to help you with your betta concerns.

Can you tell me a bit more about his tank? What's the size and was it cycled before you added him? Also, do you have any idea about your water parameters - ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels?

[kingrise]

I agree that test strips aren't the most reliable. I'd recommend investing in the API master test kit, it's a great tool for getting accurate readings. With over 800 individual tests, you'll have a better grasp on your water parameters.

If your betta's condition isn't worsening, I'd say he's likely to be okay. Has he been bumping into anything lately, or swimming too close to the filter? My betta tends to lose scales when he collides with rocks, but they usually grow back within a few days.

[SeaBidder]

How often are you cleaning the tank and doing water changes? I do them pretty regularly, at least once a week - 50% water change and a good gravel clean. I personally do 75% water changes, twice a week. For now, I'd recommend daily 50% water changes for 2 weeks, and add some aquarium salt - 1/2 tablespoon at each change. Just make sure to dissolve the salt in some tank water first, so it doesn't burn your betta. The salt helps keep the redness clean, like an astringent, and reduces stress too. Keep us updated, and keep the temp around 80F.

[fabletta]

Yeah, test strips aren't the best, I'd recommend looking into the API master test kit, it's got a ton of tests, over 800.

If your betta's not getting worse, I'd say he's probably fine. Have you seen him bump into anything or hang out near the filter? My betta sometimes loses scales when he hits rocks or decorations, but they grow back pretty quick.

You said you haven't noticed him hitting anything, but it's hard to keep an eye on them all the time, so it's possible.

[kingrise]

The aquarium salt should be fine for your shrimp and snails. However, if you're planning to add any medication that contains copper, you'll need to relocate them first.

[SeaBidder]

I'm new here, still getting the hang of things.

My betta's been with me for a bit over a few weeks now. A few days back, I noticed some missing scales, but since it didn't seem to get any worse, I figured he was on the mend. That was until today when I saw this red spot above his lip.

Should I be getting worried about this? Is there anything else I can do to help him out, aside from doing regular water changes?

If you've got snails or plants in the tank, I'd recommend halving the dosage I mentioned earlier. In my experience, salt has never caused any issues with my snails or plants, so you should be good to go.

[fabletta]

Thanks so much for the advice, I really appreciate it. I'll definitely keep you both posted on how my betta's doing.