Betta fish tumors and lumps

[drift42]

Noticed a weird lump on my betta's side yesterday. It's kinda round, not fuzzy like fungus. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 5 nitrate. Tank's a 10 gal, heated to 78F, sponge filter. Anyone seen this before? He's still eating but moves slower.

[lilynx]

That sounds sketchy. My last betta had something similar, turned out to be a tumor. They're pretty common in older ones. How old is yours? Might wanna check if it's growing.

[floodline]

That sounds sketchy. My last betta had something similar, turned out to be a tumor. They're pretty common in older ones. How old is yours? Might wanna check if it's growing.

Yep, tumors are a bummer. If it's not growing fast, could just be a cyst. Try epsom salt baths, 1 tbsp per gallon for 15 mins daily. Keep the water pristine, maybe up the water changes to twice a week.

[biteon]

Mine had a lump too, but it went away after a week. No idea what it was. Maybe just a weird vibe thing. You gonna try the salt?

[Riotstorm]

Tumors are often genetic, especially in line-bred bettas. If it's internal, not much you can do besides keep them comfortable. Monitor their behavior—if they're still eating and not lethargic, it's manageable. What's their diet like? High-quality pellets can help overall health.

[drift42]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. He's about 2 years old, got him from a local breeder. Gonna try the epsom salt baths and up the water changes. He's on NorthFin pellets, gets frozen bloodworms twice a week.

[lilynx]

Sounds like you're on top of it. Keep us posted if it changes. Older bettas are tough, but they can surprise you.

[floodline]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. He's about 2 years old, got him from a local breeder. Gonna try the epsom salt baths and up the water changes. He's on NorthFin pellets, gets frozen bloodworms twice a week.

Solid plan. If the salt doesn't cut it, kanaplex might help if it's bacterial. But yeah, tumors are usually a wait-and-see game.

[biteon]

Hope he pulls through. Mine's a fighter too. Bettas are weird like that.

[Riotstorm]

Agreed on the genetics angle. Local breeders sometimes have weaker lines. Not blaming anyone, just how it goes. Good call on the NorthFin, though. Quality food makes a difference.