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Fungus on Betta fins
Posted: Fri Jul 25, 2025 9:19 pm
by rivulet6
Noticed some white fuzzy patches on my betta's fins today. Tank's a 5 gallon, heated to 78F, parameters are 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. Been doing weekly water changes. Any idea what's up?
Re: Fungus on Betta fins
Posted: Fri Jul 25, 2025 10:33 pm
by floatie
Sounds like fungal infection. You might wanna try aquarium salt, 1 tsp per gallon. Also, bump the temp to 80F if your heater can handle it. Keep an eye on those water params, they're looking good so far.
Re: Fungus on Betta fins
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 12:16 am
by lilypond
I agree with floatie. Fungal infections can spread fast, so acting quick is key. Have you added any new plants or decor recently? Sometimes contaminants hitch a ride on those.
Re: Fungus on Betta fins
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 1:34 am
by aquascaper
floatie wrote: ↑Fri Jul 25, 2025 10:33 pm
Sounds like fungal infection. You might wanna try aquarium salt, 1 tsp per gallon. Also, bump the temp to 80F if your heater can handle it. Keep an eye on those water params, they're looking good so far.
Yep, salt's a solid move. I'd also recommend a fungal treatment like API Fungus Cure if it doesn't clear up in a few days. How's your betta acting? Still eating okay?
Re: Fungus on Betta fins
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 2:47 am
by dusk
Had this happen to my boy last year. Salt and heat worked wonders, but I also did a round of Kanaplex just to be safe. He bounced back in about a week. Keep us posted!
Re: Fungus on Betta fins
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 4:21 am
by rivulet6
Thanks for the advice, everyone. Gonna try the salt and temp bump first. He's still eating, but seems a bit less active than usual.
Re: Fungus on Betta fins
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 4:41 am
by Ravenix
If it's fungal, cleanliness is crucial. Maybe up the water changes to twice a week for a bit. Also, check your filter media, sometimes gunk builds up and messes with water quality even if params look fine.
Re: Fungus on Betta fins
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 5:44 am
by larkside
I've had success with Indian almond leaves too. They've got antifungal properties and help reduce stress. Toss one in there if you can find 'em.
Re: Fungus on Betta fins
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 7:10 am
by lyricon
Yo, fungal stuff's a drag but sounds like you're on it. Salt's def the way to go, and yeah, keep that water pristine. Bettas are tough, he'll pull through.
Re: Fungus on Betta fins
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 8:09 am
by bookworm
lilypond wrote: ↑Sat Jul 26, 2025 12:16 am
I agree with floatie. Fungal infections can spread fast, so acting quick is key. Have you added any new plants or decor recently? Sometimes contaminants hitch a ride on those.
Good point! I once got a nasty surprise from a supposedly 'clean' piece of driftwood. Always boil or soak new stuff before adding it.