How to treat fin rot in Bettas

[bubbles]

My betta's fins are looking rough, kinda shredded at the edges. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 5 nitrate. Tank is 5 gallons, heated to 78F, sponge filter. Been doing 20% water changes weekly. What's the best way to treat this?

[raylite]

Fin rot's usually bacterial, sometimes fungal. First, bump water changes to 30% every other day. Add aquarium salt at 1 tsp per gallon, but dissolve it first. If it doesn't improve in a week, consider an antibiotic like erythromycin. Keep the water super clean.

[SoundWise]

Fin rot's usually bacterial, sometimes fungal. First, bump water changes to 30% every other day. Add aquarium salt at 1 tsp per gallon, but dissolve it first. If it doesn't improve in a week, consider an antibiotic like erythromycin. Keep the water super clean.

Yep, this is solid advice. Also, check for any sharp decor. Sometimes fin damage starts from physical tears, then gets infected.

[Lapad]

I've had success with Indian almond leaves. They release tannins that help with healing. Just drop one in the tank, and it'll tint the water slightly. My betta's fins improved within two weeks. Make sure to keep up with the water changes though.

[SkyBound23]

Yo, fin rot's a pain but fixable. I'd second the salt thing, but don't go overboard. And yeah, check for rough stuff in the tank. My dude got caught on a fake plant once, made everything worse.

[bubbles]

Thanks for the tips, everyone. Gonna try the salt and almond leaves first. I'll update in a week.

[rodent1]

If you're using salt, remember to remove it gradually after treatment. Do a series of water changes to dilute it out. Sudden changes can stress the fish more.

[angelwras]

My betta had fin rot last month, and I used API Fin & Body Cure. Worked like a charm, but you gotta follow the dosage exactly. Also, keep the tank dim to reduce stress.

[Bamda]

I've had success with Indian almond leaves. They release tannins that help with healing. Just drop one in the tank, and it'll tint the water slightly. My betta's fins improved within two weeks. Make sure to keep up with the water changes though.

I've heard good things about almond leaves too. They're natural and safe, plus bettas seem to like the darker water. Just monitor the pH, as tannins can lower it slightly.

[coralCartel]

If you're gonna medicate, make sure to remove any carbon from your filter first. It'll just soak up the meds and make 'em useless.