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By Fish-Keeping Tips, July 19, 2009 1:52 pm

Bettas can develop various diseases. Most betta fish diseases are caused by poor water quality, so you can prevent many by keeping the water clean. Some of the most common illnesses include fin rot, velvet, and popeye. This article will discuss some of the most common diseases in betta fish.

Fin Rot

Fin rot is one of the most common diseases. Most bettas develop this condition at least once. The fins and tail will start rotting away. It can quickly become a problem if you allow the water to stay unclean too long. Although the tail or fins will grow back once treatment begins, it will take some time.

Velvet

Another common illness is velvet, a condition caused by parasites. If you other fish in the tank, you should be aware that this parasite is highly contagious. Infected fish commonly rub up against hard objects in an attempt to get rid of the parasite. Other common signs include loss of appetite, lethargy, weight loss, and rapid gill movement.

This illness presents a problem because it’s usually diagnosed in an advanced stage. This is why it’s important to begin treatment quickly. Treatment involves adding copper sulphate to the water, decreasing lighting, and increasing water temperature to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This condition may cause your betta to experience breathing difficulty. You can help remedy this by adding aquarium salt to the water.

Dropsy

Dropsy is one of the most serious betta fish diseases. It is usually fatal. Fluids in your betta will be retained due to kidney failure. Your fish will develop a swollen belly. If he also has raised scales, it’s a pretty safe bet that he has dropsy. Unfortunately, there is no cure and most bettas die within a couple of weeks.

Popeye

Popeye is also one of the most common betta fish diseases. Like fin rot, it’s caused by unclean water which leads to a bacterial infection. It’s easy to tell if your fish has popeye. His eyes will bulge out of his head. In addition to giving your betta antibiotics, you will also need to change his water very often.

You certainly want your fish to remain as healthy as possible. There are many things you need to know about raising bettas. So, make sure you click here to learn all about betta fish information.

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