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Betta fish and disease prevention tips
Posted: Mon Aug 11, 2025 7:55 am
by stormier
What's the best way to keep my betta from getting sick? I've got a 5-gallon tank with a sponge filter, heater set to 78F, and do 20% water changes weekly. Noticed some fin clamping last week but params are 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 5 nitrate. Wanna nip any issues in the bud.
Re: Betta fish and disease prevention tips
Posted: Mon Aug 11, 2025 8:39 am
by Golding
I have a similar setup but my fish got ich last month. How often should I check the water?
Re: Betta fish and disease prevention tips
Posted: Mon Aug 11, 2025 9:10 am
by euter
stormier wrote: ↑Mon Aug 11, 2025 7:55 am
What's the best way to keep my betta from getting sick? I've got a 5-gallon tank with a sponge filter, heater set to 78F, and do 20% water changes weekly. Noticed some fin clamping last week but params are 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 5 nitrate. Wanna nip any issues in the bud.
Fin clamping can mean stress, even if params look good. Try adding Indian almond leaves, they're great for boosting their immune system. Also, bump water changes to 25% weekly if you're using tap water, chlorine can sneak in.
Re: Betta fish and disease prevention tips
Posted: Mon Aug 11, 2025 9:27 am
by barbsforlife
My dude's tank is next to a window and he's always flaring at his reflection. Maybe yours is just pissed off at something? Bettas are drama queens.
Re: Betta fish and disease prevention tips
Posted: Mon Aug 11, 2025 9:59 am
by stormier
Thanks for the tips! Gonna grab some almond leaves today and see if that helps. Didn't think about the reflection thing either.
Re: Betta fish and disease prevention tips
Posted: Mon Aug 11, 2025 10:44 am
by euter
Golding wrote: ↑Mon Aug 11, 2025 8:39 am
I have a similar setup but my fish got ich last month. How often should I check the water?
Test weekly, especially if you've had issues before. Ich usually hits when temps fluctuate, so keep that heater steady. Salt baths can help if you catch it early.
Re: Betta fish and disease prevention tips
Posted: Mon Aug 11, 2025 12:12 pm
by Golding
Got it. I'll start testing more often. My heater's kinda sketchy, might need an upgrade.
Re: Betta fish and disease prevention tips
Posted: Mon Aug 11, 2025 2:04 pm
by barbsforlife
Y'all overcomplicate it. Just feed 'em good food and keep the water clean. My betta's been chillin' for years with zero drama.
Re: Betta fish and disease prevention tips
Posted: Mon Aug 11, 2025 3:26 pm
by euter
barbsforlife wrote: ↑Mon Aug 11, 2025 2:04 pm
Y'all overcomplicate it. Just feed 'em good food and keep the water clean. My betta's been chillin' for years with zero drama.
It's not overcomplicating, it's preventative care. Some bettas are hardier than others, but why risk it? Especially if you've got a fancy strain like a dumbo or halfmoon.