Betta has torn fins - causes and treatment

[Foliums]

My betta's fins are looking rough, like they've been torn. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 5 nitrate. Tank is 5 gallons, heated to 78F, no tankmates. What could be causing this?

[kaleeki]

Torn fins can happen for a few reasons. If there's no sharp decor in the tank, it might be fin rot. Check for white or black edges on the fins. Also, how often do you do water changes? Even with good params, buildup can stress them out.

[lakekeeper]

I've seen this before. Sometimes it's just them being clumsy, especially if they're active. But if it's getting worse, you might wanna add some Indian almond leaves. They help with healing and reduce stress.

[Riotstorm]

My betta's fins are looking rough, like they've been torn. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 5 nitrate. Tank is 5 gallons, heated to 78F, no tankmates. What could be causing this?

Could be the filter flow. Bettas hate strong currents. If your filter's too powerful, it might be battering their fins. Try baffling it with a sponge.

[Lyn]

Yep, filter flow's a big one. Mine had the same issue till I cut the flow down. Also, check for any plastic plants. Those can shred fins real bad.

[leafsong]

Gonna echo the decor thing. Silk or live plants are way better. If it's not that, maybe they're biting their own fins. Some bettas do that when stressed.

[FableMan]

Fin biting's a possibility, but it's usually more ragged than torn. If it's clean tears, I'd lean toward physical damage. Double-check the tank for anything sharp, even tiny edges on hides or gravel.

[Azuree1]

Torn fins can happen for a few reasons. If there's no sharp decor in the tank, it might be fin rot. Check for white or black edges on the fins. Also, how often do you do water changes? Even with good params, buildup can stress them out.

Agreed. Water changes should be weekly, 20-30%. And if it's fin rot, you'll need to treat with aquarium salt or meds. But don't jump to meds unless you're sure.

[_jester9]

My dude had this last month. Turned out the heater had a sharp bit on the suction cup. Swapped it out and his fins healed up in a couple weeks.

[lazuli]

Heater's a good point. Also, what kinda substrate you using? Rough gravel can do it too.