AboutBrit Brit Expertise I can answer your questions about Bettas, most Freshwater Tropical Fish, compatibility between tropical freshwater fish, tips on how to set up a new aquarium, what fish to add, what temperature your tank should be at, etc.
I can answer questions about goldfish, and I know a bit about aquarium plants.
I can't answer questions concerning anything marine, and I know next to nothing about ponds, and even less about Cichlid breeding. So please don't ask.
If I am not sure about something, I will try to research it for you and get back to you very quickly.
I cannot magically cure your fish over the web, unfortunately, so please remember your fish's health depends solely on you.
Also, don't expect a detailed answer if I have not been given a detailed question. I can only do so much!
Details, details, details!!
(It does state what I need on the Ask A Question Page)
Experience I take care of over 3000 fish daily. I worked at Petsmart for a few years, and have had training in many areas, including aquaria and all the basics to keep fish happy and healthy. I met quite a few experts in the hobby and have learned a lot from them, and they have learned a lot from me :)
Also, I have done a lot of research and studying on my own time about not just fish but a lot of different house pets because I like to help people and help their pets. <BR><BR><B>Education/Credentials</B><BR>Petsmart training
Adult Diploma
<BR>
Expert: Brit Brit Date: 3/22/2008 Subject: fish dieases
Question Hello, My beta suddenly has a bloated stomach. I also have another fish in the same tank, who cannot swim right. like her back is broken. I've been reading on the net and it looks like swim bladder or dropsy. Could you please tell me what this is and what meds to use? Thanks, Gail
Answer When a fish develops dropsy, usually caused by poor water conditions, their stomach fills up with liquid and they appear about to burst, and you know it's dropsy in the fatal stages because the scales will stick out almost like a little pinecone.
SBD is usually caused by overfeeding. The stomach becomes pressed against the swim bladder and the fish is not able to float properly.
Cut back on how much you are feeding, and do not feed at all for the next 48 hours.
Make sure the temperature is between 75-85 degrees, add some aquarium salt, and if it is dropsy then you'll need Tetracycline as well.
You need to make sure you are doing enough water changes as well. Water changes are the most important part of keeping a healthy tank. You can also buy water quality test strips to find out where your ammonia levels and nitrite levels are at. Ideally, Ammonia and nitrites shouldn't go above 0, and nitrates should never go above 20.
