AboutAmber Worman Expertise I specialize in Gouramis, Black Moors, Fantail goldfish, and Bettas. I can answer questions about fish behavior, tank mates, diseases, and living conditions. I do not have much experience with breeding these types of fish, however.
Experience Fish are my passion - I have raised these types of fish for as long as I can remember. I am a college student at Purdue University where I have a major in Biology and a position as a lab technician in a fish laboratory.
Question I have had a male betta for 2 weeks now in a 1 gallon tank with filter. Haven't yet done a complete change of tank water. However, on two occasions, I have replaced approximately 30-50% of the water and conditioned it appropriately. Water temp 74 degrees. Feeding fish 1x per day anywhere from 5-9 pellets. He eats well. Color is good. Noticed today a white, stringy substance "hanging" off his body. Not on face. Any advice?
Answer Hello Jennifer-
This sounds like a kind of fungus, which is common to bettas, especially when they are kept in cool (room temperature)water. Try adding some Melafix and a little aquarium salt to the water, and warm the water up with a desk lamp or a heating pad until it is about 80 F (buying a tiny heater would work just as well.) If this setup does not kill the fungus in a few days, you'll have to use a fungicide. There are many types available, and you can find them at PetsMart, WalMart, or other pet stores.
