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.
Education/Credentials Petsmart training
Adult Diploma
Expert: Brit Brit Date: 5/10/2008 Subject: BETTA FISH
Question My fish has tail rot - fins seem to be ok.
The edges of the tail is black and did not seem too bad and I put a little of Pimifix/Melafix in the water. I was afraid to put very much-- I heard that Melafix can kill Bettas. I bought "Betta Revive" that has Neo sulfate, methylene blue and lots of other stuff. Again I was afraid to put too much in so I only did half of the dosage.
Now the tail looks shreded too.
Was ready to put more Revive in or change the water and use the Melafix.
Had him only two weeks and have changed water one. The water was not dirty nor cloudy.
Put him in a one gallon
Feed him everyday a very small amount(two pellets of betta food and a one or two freeze dried bloodworms.)
He seems very happy and swims around and follows me in the room.
The temperature is too cold (home is 72) and I don't have a heater (Don't think heaters are made for gallon or 2)
What can I do?
Thanks
Answer Hello Sharon,
First off, change out his water straight away, and stick to using just the betta remedy until he recovers. Fin rot is almost always caused by poor water quality. this means you need to change your water more frequently. Even if the water "looks" clean, the toxic chemicals produced by your fish on a daily basis are invisible and can be fatal to your fish. This is why it is important to do frequent water changes, and also to keep a test kit at home so you can make sure your fish isn't suffering from ammonia or nitrogen accumulation.
Always follw dosages and warnings on medications for fish exactly, since overdosing can be toxic, and under dosing will be no help at all.
Bloodworms are a favorite of all bettas, but should only be fed as a treat a few times a week, not everyday. Too much food will cause more ammonia to accumulate in his tank faster, and in such a small tank this will only make it harder for you to keep him healthy. Betta pellets will also have all the nutrition he needs (depending on the brand - always check the ingredients).
Lastly, they do in fact make a tank heater for 2 gallons and under, it is called a mini tank heater, by the brand Hydor. You can usually find them at Petco, and cost around 12 dollars.
If your house is not warm enough, this is definitely a good idea as it will prolong the life of your fish. (and please don't ever put his tank near a window, or a heater, as this can cause more problems than anyone needs!)
