How to do a Betta health check

[mornia]

I've had my betta for about six months now, and I wanna make sure he's healthy. What are the key things to look for during a health check? His tank's a 5-gallon with a sponge filter, heated to 78°F, and I do weekly water changes.

[bronx]

First thing's checking their fins for tears or discoloration. Also, watch their breathing rate—if it's too fast, something's off. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, but what's your nitrate level? Bettas can handle up to 20ppm, but lower's better.

[seafarer]

Yep, fins are a big tell. Also, see if they're eating normally. Mine stopped chowing down when he had fin rot. Oh, and check for white spots—could be ich. You got a pic of your guy?

[bloomi]

I'm kinda new to this, but my betta's always flaring at his reflection. Is that bad? He's in a 3-gallon with a little heater, and I feed him pellets twice a day.

[Birdman92]

I'm kinda new to this, but my betta's always flaring at his reflection. Is that bad? He's in a 3-gallon with a little heater, and I feed him pellets twice a day.

Flaring's normal, but too much can stress them out. Try reducing light or adding more plants to break up reflections. Also, 3-gallon's okay, but bigger's better if you can swing it.

[talon]

Don't forget to check their scales for raised edges—could be dropsy. And if they're lying on the bottom a lot, that's a red flag. Mine did that when the temp dropped too low.

[voyen]

What's the best way to test water parameters? I've been using strips, but someone told me they're not accurate.

[bronx]

What's the best way to test water parameters? I've been using strips, but someone told me they're not accurate.

Liquid test kits are way more reliable. API Freshwater Master Kit's the gold standard. Strips can be off by a few ppm, which matters for nitrates.

[mornia]

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll grab a liquid test kit and keep an eye on his fins and breathing. Appreciate the help!

[oceana_4]

My betta's been kinda lazy lately. He's in a 10-gallon with some neon tetras. Water's all good, but he's just not as active. Could it be the tankmates?