Page 1 of 2
Symptoms of fin rot in Bettas
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 3:28 am
by microbe
My betta's fins look ragged and discolored at the edges. Is this fin rot? Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 5 nitrate. Tank is 5 gallons, heated to 78F, filtered with a sponge. He's been eating fine but seems less active lately.
Re: Symptoms of fin rot in Bettas
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 4:46 am
by bakerly
microbe wrote: ↑Wed Jul 16, 2025 3:28 am
My betta's fins look ragged and discolored at the edges. Is this fin rot? Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 5 nitrate. Tank is 5 gallons, heated to 78F, filtered with a sponge. He's been eating fine but seems less active lately.
Yep, sounds like early fin rot. Keep the water pristine, do small daily water changes, and maybe add some Indian almond leaves. They've got antibacterial properties that can help.
Re: Symptoms of fin rot in Bettas
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 5:19 am
by florabush
I've had success with aquarium salt for mild cases. 1 tsp per gallon, dissolved in tank water first. Just don't overdo it, and remove it after a week if no improvement.
Re: Symptoms of fin rot in Bettas
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 6:47 am
by trollmaster
florabush wrote: ↑Wed Jul 16, 2025 5:19 am
I've had success with aquarium salt for mild cases. 1 tsp per gallon, dissolved in tank water first. Just don't overdo it, and remove it after a week if no improvement.
Agreed, but watch for stress. Some bettas don't tolerate salt well. If he starts clamping his fins or hiding more, cut it out sooner.
Re: Symptoms of fin rot in Bettas
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 7:58 am
by manny_dude
Had the same issue last month. Turned out my filter flow was too strong, tearing his fins. Adjusted it and added StressGuard. He healed up in about two weeks.
Re: Symptoms of fin rot in Bettas
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 8:36 am
by microbe
Thanks for the tips, everyone. Gonna try the almond leaves and smaller water changes first. His flow's already gentle, so I'll skip the salt unless it gets worse.
Re: Symptoms of fin rot in Bettas
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 10:14 am
by bakerly
Smart move. Keep an eye on those edges. If they start looking fuzzy or white, it might be fungal, and you'll need meds. But for now, clean water's your best bet.
Re: Symptoms of fin rot in Bettas
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 11:25 am
by foliage
Also, check for sharp decor. Even a rough plastic plant can mess with their fins. Sand down any edges or swap for silk plants if you're unsure.
Re: Symptoms of fin rot in Bettas
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 12:52 pm
by flakey
foliage wrote: ↑Wed Jul 16, 2025 11:25 am
Also, check for sharp decor. Even a rough plastic plant can mess with their fins. Sand down any edges or swap for silk plants if you're unsure.
Good point. My guy got nipped by a fake castle once. Switched to driftwood and live plants, no issues since.
Re: Symptoms of fin rot in Bettas
Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2025 2:05 pm
by singerjack
Poor little guy. Hope he feels better soon. It's tough seeing them unwell. You're doing great by asking for help early.