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Preventing illness in Betta fish
Posted: Mon Jul 28, 2025 1:08 pm
by brinyveg
I've been keeping bettas for a while now, but my last one got sick and didn't make it. What's the best way to prevent illness in them? I've got a 5-gallon tank, heater set to 78, and do weekly water changes.
Re: Preventing illness in Betta fish
Posted: Mon Jul 28, 2025 2:10 pm
by RazorX
First off, sorry to hear about your fish. Bettas are tough but can get sick if water quality slips. You're on the right track with the heater and water changes. Test your water regularly for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. Even small spikes can stress them out. Also, avoid overfeeding—leftover food messes with water quality.
Re: Preventing illness in Betta fish
Posted: Mon Jul 28, 2025 4:04 pm
by starwea
I agree with RazorX. Water quality is key. I'd also add that a good filter helps, but make sure the flow isn't too strong. Bettas don't like strong currents. And if you're using tap water, always condition it to remove chlorine.
Re: Preventing illness in Betta fish
Posted: Mon Jul 28, 2025 5:18 pm
by EllieX
How often do you clean the tank substrate? Debris can build up and cause problems. I vacuum mine every water change. Also, what's your feeding routine? Overfeeding is a common issue.
Re: Preventing illness in Betta fish
Posted: Mon Jul 28, 2025 5:54 pm
by brinyveg
RazorX wrote: ↑Mon Jul 28, 2025 2:10 pm
First off, sorry to hear about your fish. Bettas are tough but can get sick if water quality slips. You're on the right track with the heater and water changes. Test your water regularly for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. Even small spikes can stress them out. Also, avoid overfeeding—leftover food messes with water quality.
Thanks for the advice. I'll start testing more often. I've been feeding once a day, but maybe I'll cut back a bit.
Re: Preventing illness in Betta fish
Posted: Mon Jul 28, 2025 6:38 pm
by sunnygold
Another thing to watch is tankmates. Some folks keep bettas with other fish, but it's risky. Even peaceful fish can stress them out. If you're gonna have tankmates, make sure they're chill and the tank's big enough.
Re: Preventing illness in Betta fish
Posted: Mon Jul 28, 2025 7:02 pm
by Bridger1
I've had success with adding Indian almond leaves. They release tannins that can help prevent infections. Just toss one in and let it steep. My bettas seem to like the darker water too.
Re: Preventing illness in Betta fish
Posted: Mon Jul 28, 2025 8:26 pm
by deepsea1
Yeah, almond leaves are great. Also, keep an eye on your betta's behavior. If they're acting off—like not eating or hiding more than usual—it's a red flag. Catching problems early makes a huge difference.
Re: Preventing illness in Betta fish
Posted: Mon Jul 28, 2025 9:04 pm
by purered
I'm kinda new to this, but my betta's been doing great. I keep the tank clean, feed him small amounts twice a day, and use a sponge filter. It's all about keeping things stable, ya know?
Re: Preventing illness in Betta fish
Posted: Mon Jul 28, 2025 10:28 pm
by Murder
sunnygold wrote: ↑Mon Jul 28, 2025 6:38 pm
Another thing to watch is tankmates. Some folks keep bettas with other fish, but it's risky. Even peaceful fish can stress them out. If you're gonna have tankmates, make sure they're chill and the tank's big enough.
Absolutely. Bettas are territorial. If you must have tankmates, go for snails or shrimp. Even then, some bettas will still mess with them.