Betta Questions... gen.   1/10/07
Hi Bob-
<<Hi, Margaret. Tom filling in.>>
This might be long - sorry!  
<<Oh, stop. :) >>
I'm a by-accident first time male Betta fish owner and need some help!<<Okay.>>Someone at work received the fish as a gift for the holidays, and since I was the only one here, I took care of it, and now it's ended up being mine.
<<There seems to be some of that going around, Margaret.>>  
Since I've never in my life owned any kind of fish, I'm really at a  loss as to how to care for this guy.  He originally was in a small glass cube, and I was told only to feed him these Betta ColorBright flakes 3 times a week.  
<<Bettas are easily overfed but small amount every day won’t hurt him.>>
After only a week he was floating on his side at the top, but still alive. After doing some online research, I was immediately shocked that I wasn't taking care of him properly.
<<Kudos for the research, Margaret.>>
So I went to the pet store and purchased a 1-Gallon fish bowl, Tetra freeze-dried bloodworms, AmQuel + and NovAqua + to treat the water, and a fake fabric plant so he could have something to sleep/hide behind.  
<<All good…>>
I have big, smooth pebbles at the bottom of the bowl, I rinsed the plant and placed it in the bowl, and I used water from the water cooler at work to fill it (I took the temp. of it and it has stayed around 75), put in a drop each of the Amquel and NovAqua, and immediately placed the fish back in the bowl.  He attacked the plant for a few minutes, and when he got used to it he seemed happy and was swimming all around.  
<<So far, so good however I sense a “but” coming.>>
He seemed great for a few days after. I would give him 1 freeze dried bloodworm in the morning, then a few flakes at night, and he doesn't get fed on sat. or sun. (because I'm not at work where he's kept).  
<<Shouldn’t be too big of a problem.>>
However, yest. morning he was floating alive on top again and struggling to get to the bottom of the bowl.  It's not that he can't get down there eventually (he usually does) but it seems like he floats on top all morning, then starts swimming around in the afternoon, eventually getting to the bottom.
<<Okay. You need to understand that he’ll breathe air from the surface. This part of Betta behavior isn’t unusual. In fact, it’s totally necessary for their survival.>>
When he gets to the bottom, he also digs around the pebbles.
<<Mine doesn’t but it’s not an indication of a real problem.>>
I bought freshwater salts last night and placed a couple in the bowl this morning, plus I tested the water for ammonia with the Mardel Small Bowl Water Change Test, in case I needed to change the water, but it came back fine, so I'm not sure what else to do.  
<<You’re doing fine thus far. My only recommendation is that you mix the salt with fresh water before adding it to the bowl. Undissolved salt can “burn” fish. Seems contradictory, really, but you want the salt to be in “solution” when it’s added.>>
He has always had a small pinhole in his bottom fin and has always had something smooth and black protruding from the gills all around his head, so I'm not sure if he has a gill disease, or bacteria infection?
<<The aquarium salt will, likely, take care of both “conditions” if this is what they are. The fins on Bettas are easily damaged/torn. Might have been from handling, for instance. If they become ragged or split, it’s a problem. As for the gills, I wouldn’t leap to any specific conclusions at this point. Stick with the salt, removing old water and replacing it with fresh water, salt included, on a regular basis.>>
And if it is either of these things, how do I treat it in a 1-Gallon bowl?
<<Let’s see if the salt works first.>>
I also bought this water conditioner called Bowl Buddies that use fizz tabs - it seemed a bit more easier to use than the Amquel, but I'm waiting to use it until I change the water again sometime this week.
<<A one-gallon bowl should have the water changed, at least, twice a week. In fact, given the location, I’d go with Monday, Wednesday and Friday. About half should be right.>>
It came with Hikari pellets, which I fed him 2 this morning that he ate right up.
<<Look into a variety of foods, Margaret. There are good quality flake foods for Bettas as well as freeze-dried bloodworms and daphnia. Brine shrimp are a real favorite as well. (Don’t buy the frozen variety. It’s excellent but would be a waste of money in your case with only one fish to feed.)>>  
Besides the illness questions, I have a few other questions too.
<<Fire away…>>
Should I not be putting fake plants in the bowl?
<<Fake plants are fine if they’re made of silk. Plastic plants have sharp edges that might tear a Betta’s fins.>>
When I change the water, should I pour the already existing water into another bowl with the fish, clean out the bowl, place fresh water and conditioner in it, then immediately place the fish and some old water back into the tank, or do I wait a little while for the conditioner to work in the water before placing the fish back in?
<<Find a suitable container – a large plastic measuring cup would do well – and dip out about half of the water from the bowl. Dump this and fill with fresh water and the conditioner and salt. (Your Betta will be fine until this is done. Trust me!) Let this water sit for a bit – until it appears perfectly clear – and then add this back to the bowl. If I have a concern here, going with what we’ve got, it’s going to be issues of temperature and using the “drinking” water. Bettas need warm temperatures. Warmer than 75 degrees. Need to be nearer to 80, or higher. Also, water should be taken from the tap rather than using “purified” drinking water. Tap water has “elements” in it that fish require and, often, bottled water has had these elements removed. As an aside, if you decide to take him home one day, the bottled water won’t likely be available. Acclimate him to tap water. Finally, consider a little larger tank for him. A one-gallon bowl isn’t “bad” but he’d do better in something in the range of 2 1/2 gallons up to five, given that you’ve got him at work. This would also allow you to get a heater and filter. (No, I don’t have a brother-in-law who sells aquarium equipment. :) ) Just far better for the fish all around.>>
Sorry for all these questions, I'm just really confused and baffled by this fish!!
Thanks again-
Margaret
<<You’re welcome, Margaret. Like I’ve told other folks, you know where to find us! Cheers. Tom>>
Thank you!  I actually sent another email today-please disregard.
<<Caught it, Margaret, and figured you didn't need a second reply
to the same question(s). All is happy!>>
Margaret
<<Tom>>

New Betta tank - 09/02/06
Hi,
<Hello there - Jorie here.>
Several questions . . . A friend recently "regifted" me her
betta-in-vase-with-bamboo, which she resented, understandably, receiving as a wedding present.
<Ah, I wish some people would get it through their thick skulls that fish (as any other live animals) are *not* appropriate "presents" to give others - unless discussion has occurred before and proper arrangements are made.>
I thought the vase was way too small (2 gallon) and the bamboo didn't look healthy. Plus, the betta started to get little
patches of fuzzy mould on his fin tips even though I cleaned everything, changed the water (with treated tap water), and added BettaFix as soon as I got it home.
<Good.>
After reading about the devastating effects of unchecked fungus I panicked and went down to the science dept. of the school where I work and "borrowed" 20 gallon tank which I set up with gravel, healthy live plants, filter, heater, aquarium salt.
<Wonderful! The betta will definitely appreciate the heater (ideal betta temp. is between 80 and 82 degrees F.), and the filtration is, in my opinion, essential for any fish to thrive. Of course, a 20 gal. tank is pretty much the equivalent of a palace or celebrity home w/ 19 bedrooms to a betta - if this is only a temporary arrangement and you need to return the tank, I'd recommend a 3-5 gal. tank (w/ heater and filtration, of course) to house a single male betta.>
The betta, after a day looks happy, and the fuzz has disappeared. He's even showing regrowth.
<I'm glad to hear it.  The little guy is lucky to have you!>
I also bought Maracyn and am wondering: 1. Should I treat him anyway?
<No - never a good idea to medicate unless there's a clear need for it.  You've done a great job in cleaning up his environment, and if you see that the fungus has already gone, then leave well enough alone.  Keep an eye on him, of course; if the problem crops up again, you can always re-assess.  Also, since you already used BettaFix, that's another reason to not add another med. - never a good idea to mix medications.>
2. The tank was not cycled, have I done something awful? Can I fix this error?
<You have not done something awful...since you have only the one fish in there, you aren't likely to see a real "spike" in ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate (i.e., cycling).  Nevertheless, do keep up on water changes (with such a large tank, I'd say 25% a week, with just the one betta), and you can monitor the toxin levels with test kits.  Obviously, if conditions warrant, you can always do more water changes as needed.>
3. The betta will eat nothing but freeze-dried bloodworms, and the local pet store has no live food. Would it like some tadpole? There is a pond down the road.
<Gosh, no!  Bloodworms are an excellent food source for bettas.  Live food is not necessary or even appropriate for a betta - there's always a risk of introducing disease w/ feeder fish and such.  Plus, fish and tadpoles they are way too big for your betta.  I'd suggest picking up a dry betta food, such as Hikari pellets.  I believe Tetra makes betta pellets as well, but I think Hikari is a better quality food all in all.  Alternative w/ the bloodworms.  If you really want to give your betta a treat, try freeze-dried or frozen, then thawed Mysis shrimp - he'll love you for ever!
4. He has never, though he is a perky fish, made bubble nests. Is
this a matter of concern?
<Absolutely not.  Some bettas do, some don't.  Honestly, of all the types of fish I keep/have kept, I find that the bettas each have their own individual personalities - they really are the most "pet-like" of fish, in my opinion.  I adore my two bettas - I say "good morning" and "good night" to them each day, etc. etc. So long as he's swimming and eating, he should be just fine.  Make sure he has at least a couple of plants/decorations to rest in or behind.>
Finally, this tank is huge...
<Agreed!>
...and I think it could easily accommodate a couple of other life forms.
<Sure, depending on what you have in mind...>
The most mentioned basic additions seem to be shrimp or snails, yes?
<The success of that will depend entirely on the temperament of your betta.  Some of my bettas have been peaceful enough to live w/ Amano and cherry shrimp, while others have thought of the shrimp as "dinner".  Since you do have so much space, you could look into a bamboo wood shrimp (but, you mentioned having aquarium salt...inverts will not likely tolerate this).  Snails also won't like the salt.  I'd suggest perhaps looking into livebearers (mollies would appreciate the salt; I'm not sure about fancy guppies, as the betta may go for their pretty fins; platys would be fine also if there isn't too much salt in the water.  With all livebearers, be sure to get either all of one sex, of a ratio of about 1:4 male:female.  The betta may take care of the fry, as well:-).  Other potential fish tankmates would include white clouds, tetras, or danios.>
Thank you so much for you help.
<Hope I have!>
Alice
<I'm so glad there's people like you out there to rescue the bettas from the non-suitable parents" out there...Jorie.>

Re: New Betta tank Part 2  - 09/02/06
Thank you again for your help.
<You're welcome.>
I'm feeling a *lot* less nervous now.
<Good!>
(Imagine how awful it would be to kill someone else's wedding present.)
<I understand.  Plus, I get pretty attached to all my fish, so I cry when anyone dies, even from old age.>
I just need clarification on a couple of points: Are the bloodworms a complete diet?
<Fish need variety in their diets just as people do...>
(I've tried different pellet type foods and he just spits them out.)
<You've got a few options: you could try flakes (I don't think I've ever had a betta eat flakes, but there are betta-specific flakes out there, so some bettas must!) Also, the Mysis shrimp is almost *sure* to be a hit.  Finally, there's a product called Kent Garlic Xtreme (basically just pure garlic extract) that works very well as an appetite stimulant...it's very powerful, though, so just use 1, 2 at the most, drops a minute or so before feeding.  Or, you can soak pellet or flake food in it, first.  If, for some strange reason your betta will not eat anything except the worms, well, that's better than him just eating brine shrimp (equivalent of potato-chips for fish...virtually no nutritional value), so don't fret too much.  Experiment, and I'm sure you'll find something that works.  Just stay away from the live food.>
And if I decide to go ahead and try any of the tankmates you
suggested how long should I wait - the tank is less than 2 days old right now.
<Well you definitely want to establish the nitrogen cycle, and that can't have happened in 2 days.  Too early to add new fish/livestock.  Once you've seen a spike, then decrease in ammonia, nitrites and nitrates, in that order, your tank is "cycled".  Read here for more information: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/fwestcycling.htm >
  Is there a reliable single "all in one" toxin tester, or must I navigate a tortuous chemical labyrinth (as it seems to my addled
humanities brain when I try to read any of the web pages on this topic).
<Haha! Trust me, I am by no means a chemistry geek, and I can barely do simple math!  Unfortunately, there isn't one magic test that will measure everything you need.  Also, the most "simplified" products, such as AmmoniaAlert (or something like that) - a suction-cup ammonia reader - are notoriously unreliable.  You really just want to be able to test ammonia, nitrites, nitrates and pH.  There's a test kit made by Tetra (called Master Test Kit, I think) that is very easy to use and equally reliable.  It comes with everything you need, is maybe $25 (will last you a while w/ just one tank!), and is very self-explanatory on how to take measurements.  Basically, you take little samples of tank water, add one or more chemicals from the kit, wait the allotted time, and viola! measure the reading against a chart.  Quite easy, trust me!  Stay away from the "dip-stick" tests, as they are not reliable at all.>
<You are definitely on the right track - relax, and enjoy your new fish.  And, we are always here to help, should the need arise.  Jorie>

Re: New Betta tank Part 3  - 09/02/06
Thank you again for your help.
<You're welcome.>
I'm feeling a *lot* less nervous now.
<Good!>
(Imagine how awful it would be to kill someone else's wedding present.)
<I understand.  Plus, I get pretty attached to all my fish, so I cry when anyone dies, even from old age.>
I just need clarification on a couple of points: Are the bloodworms a complete diet?
<Fish need variety in their diets just as people do...>
(I've tried different pellet type foods and he just spits them out.)
<You've got a few options: you could try flakes (I don't think I've ever had a betta eat flakes, but there are betta-specific flakes out there, so some bettas must!) Also, the Mysis shrimp is almost *sure* to be a hit.  Finally, there's a product called Kent Garlic Xtreme (basically just pure garlic extract) that works very well as an appetite stimulant...it's very powerful, though, so just use 1, 2 at the most, drops a minute or so before feeding.  Or, you can soak pellet or flake food in it, first.  If, for some strange reason your betta will not eat anything except the worms, well, that's better than him just eating brine shrimp (equivalent of potato-chips for fish...virtually no nutritional value), so don't fret too much.  Experiment, and I'm sure you'll find something that works.  Just stay away from the live food.>
And if I decide to go ahead and try any of the tankmates you
suggested how long should I wait - the tank is less than 2 days old right now.
<Well you definitely want to establish the nitrogen cycle, and that can't have happened in 2 days.  Too early to add new fish/livestock.  Once you've seen a spike, then decrease in ammonia, nitrites and nitrates, in that order, your tank is "cycled".  Read here for more information: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/fwestcycling.htm >
  Is there a reliable single "all in one" toxin tester, or must I navigate a tortuous chemical labyrinth (as it seems to my addled
humanities brain when I try to read any of the web pages on this topic).
<Haha! Trust me, I am by no means a chemistry geek, and I can barely do simple math!  Unfortunately, there isn't one magic test that will measure everything you need.  Also, the most "simplified" products, such as AmmoniaAlert (or something like that) - a suction-cup ammonia reader - are notoriously unreliable.  You really just want to be able to test ammonia, nitrites, nitrates and pH.  There's a test kit made by Tetra (called Master Test Kit, I think) that is very easy to use and equally reliable.  It comes with everything you need, is maybe $25 (will last you a while w/ just one tank!), and is very self-explanatory on how to take measurements.  Basically, you take little samples of tank water, add one or more chemicals from the kit, wait the allotted time, and viola! measure the reading against a chart.  Quite easy, trust me!  Stay away from the "dip-stick" tests, as they are not reliable at all.>
<You are definitely on the right track - relax, and enjoy your new fish.  And, we are always here to help, should the need arise.  Jorie>

Re: safe decorations for betta tank  9/3/06
Jorie,
<Alice>
Last question, I promise: I read on your site that sea shells are generally not a safe decoration, so I've taken them out. How about
Amythest stones, smooth sided, and glazed coffee cups?
<I think the stones will be fine, but do you know what the coffee cups are glazed with?  I'd be concerned that some lead based ceramic glazes could potentially leech out into the water.  I know some people used terra cotta planter pots w/o problem.>
Thank you,
Alice
<You're welcome. Have a great holiday, Jorie.>

New betta owner  - 09/01/06
<<Hello, Jacqueline. Tom this afternoon.>>
We brought home a beautiful betta and have purchased the drops to condition his water. We also use a Brita filter for ourselves and use it for his water too.
<<Generally we don't recommend filtered/bottled water for our pets since the elements the fish need are absent - or nearly so - from these sources. Do keep a close eye on your new Betta but leave things as they are for now.>>
He seems to respond to me.
<<Bet you're the one who feeds him. :)>>
I have observed some interesting behaviour and want to be sure it's not an indication of stress. He's not puffing out as I've seen on some sources (aggressive or threat response, like a cat puffing up.) but he sometimes flops on his side on the stones (we cleaned and treated them, too - also rinse them with each water change). It doesn't seem as if he's scratching himself on the stones, but it's definitely a deliberate motion. Sort of flinging himself on the bottom. I actually can't tell if he's touching the stones or if they're whisked about by his fins.
<<I suppose it's interesting to see a Betta flare at himself in a mirror (I've never done it with mine, truthfully) but I don't see the lack of this behavior as any indication to be concerned. I certainly doubt that it's stress- related. Think of your Betta as a "Gentleman" fish not given to macho displays.
As for his bottom-flopping, mine acts similarly. Not to the degree you describe but not far from it either. Sure made me take a deep breath when he pulled this on me the first few times but now I just sort of accept this eccentricity.>>
He comes to the top when I feed him and he clearly seems to like a little attention. The water temp. is between 75 - 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
<<I hold mine at 82 degrees, Jacqueline. 75 is too cold for Bettas. Actually, I could go a couple of degrees higher without any concern whatsoever. The key here is keeping the temperature as stable as possible. Five degree swings, particularly over a fairly short period of time, aren't good especially in the downward direction. This would be very stressful.>>
Seems very uninterested in the mirror thing. Anything to worry about?
<<Not in my opinion.>>
Thanks in advance.
<<You're more than welcome.>>
PS curiously, my cat is completely uninterested in the new addition.
<<Your Betta won't flare and your cat doesn't want to eat him. Is someone in the house slipping your pets Valium, by any chance? :)>>
Jacqueline Church
<<Enjoy your new Betta, Jacqueline. Best regards. Tom>>

Tybalt the Betta   7/27/06
Hi,
<<Hello, Amelia. Tom here.>>
I convinced my parents to buy me a pet for my fifteenth birthday, which was May 27, so a few days beforehand I came home to a deep blue Betta in a 1-gallon tank that the box said was "specifically designed for Bettas and first-time owners".
<<I wish they'd specifically design a tank in the 5- to 10-gallon range for Bettas. Might be less problems. ;)>>
At first I was disappointed, having expected a cat, but I soon grew very attached to the little guy, named Tybalt for the character in Romeo and Juliet.  
<<A cat. A Betta. Not much difference. :)>>
I read up on Betta care and got a thermometer that sticks to the inside of his tank, and I placed the tank under a lamp, still saving money to buy a light to leave on all the time.  He was really hyper and quirky at first, and I would sit for long periods of time watching him "sneak up" on the thermometer, touch it (it shakes slightly at the softest touch), and "run away".  Then I went to the mountains with my grandparents last week and left vivid instructions on when my mom should feed him (three times a day, flake food that came with the tank).  When I came back four days later scum had built up on the sides of his tank and the plastic plant in it, and Tybalt was lying on the gravel on the bottom, just beneath his plant.
<<Not good.>>
I did a full water change just so I could clean the brownish-green scum off, and at first he seemed a little happier.  But that's been about a week and he still isn't his old self (he doesn't play with his thermometer and he rarely even moves from his spot under the plant).  
<<Couple of things come to mind but let's go on...>>
Then I noticed that when I'd feed him he wouldn't come to his food (usually he attacked it).  He usually ate the freeze-dried blood worms I gave him as a treat like it was going out of style, but now he won't touch it.  
<<Not unusual if he's stressed or "blocked up". How does his belly look? Any signs of bloating? Bettas are designed as "meat eaters" and flake food that's high in vegetable matter may not sit well.>>
I have no idea how to check water quality, but I've been using the same water the whole time and he hasn't suffered.  
<<A test kit would tell you what you need to know. Fairly simple to use, as well. You could also take a sample to the fish store and ask them to test it for you. Ask for the specific readings if you do this. When you experience problems, having the exact parameters can tell a great deal.>>
I also use the conditioner that came with the tank, although I lost it and didn't have it for one change this summer (I change about one-fourth of the water in the tank every week and add half a capful of conditioner to it, like the instructions said).  
<<This could be an area for concern, too. Tap water that's treated with Chloramine has Ammonia in it. A conditioner that treats only Chlorine would leave the Ammonia behind. A number of conditioners/dechlorinators now treat for both Chlorine and Chloramine. I'd opt for one that does both.>>
I just went and looked in on him.  The temperature is almost 80, so I turned the lamp off for the night, and he was lying under the plant again.  I worry about my dad having the air conditioner on seventy all day so it's less that seventy in his tank, and when I turn the lamp on he turns it off.  My dad doesn't understand the concept that he's not "just a fish".  
<<You might "gently" explain to your dad that wide swings in temperature can harm or, kill, your pet. Fish aren't designed the way mammals/people are. Even small but sudden swings in temperature can wreak havoc on a fish's system. Tybalt is beautifully built to breathe air like we do but if the surface air is colder than the tank temperature, he can die from breathing it. (Our body systems heat the air as we breathe it in. A fish can't do this.)>>
I just want Tybalt to be healthy and lively again.  I'm particularly worried because we're going to the beach next week, Sunday through Wednesday, so my grandmother will be taking care of him.  Is it possible that he just missed me?  
<<I wish I could tell you that he did, Amelia. The $50 word for this is "anthropomorphism", which is simply people trying to place human-like characteristics on animals and other non-human entities. Sadly, Tybalt doesn't have the capacity to "miss" you in the way that you and I know the meaning of it. On the flip side, my guys sure know when I come home from work that it's time to eat! Might be something to it after all. :)>>
Would taking him to my grandmother's be bad or good while we're away (she lives within shouting distance)?  
<<Wouldn't it be better for her to be able to keep an eye on him at her house?>>
Also, his bottom fin, the one below his tailfin, is twisted.  I didn't notice until I held a mirror up to his tank tonight, just to see if he'd move.  His gills puffed up, but the rest of him stayed limp.  I haven't been giving him the mirror lately, because he was so spazzy over the thermometer I thought that was enough exercise.  But his bottom fin was twisted, not injured I don't think, just like when you curl your hair around your finger, that shape.
<<Three areas of concern from what you've described here, Amelia. Diet, with perhaps not enough "meat". Include some live insects, if possible. Your water conditioner/dechlorinator and, of course, temperature swings. Frankly, I'd concentrate on the latter two. Get a conditioner like NovAqua+ (Kordon's) that handles both Chlorine and Chloramine and, do whatever is possible to keep Tybalt's tank at 80-84 degrees all the time. Stability is really the key here with no big swings in any of the parameters.>>
Please help me get my lovely active Betta back,
Amelia
PS. Sorry it was so long, I worry easily and I really want someone to be able to tell me what I should fix.
<<No apologies necessary, Amelia. By the way, Bettas appreciate some "aquarium salt" in their water. One third of a tablespoon for his tank, at the most. Should help, though. My best to you. Tom>>

Betta Troubles 7/10/06
Good Afternoon~
<Good afternoon to you.>
My husband and I bought our 4-1/2 year old son a Betta fish on Thursday (today is Monday) and he is dead already. <Uh-Oh.>  What in the world did we do wrong?  I feel just terrible!  We bought a 1.5 gallon tank, used room temperature spring water as we were told to, Betta gravel, and threw in a couple Betta plant bulbs.
<Unless your tap water is of a horrible quality, I prefer tap water with the appropriate dechlorinator.  Actually easier on the fish.>
The Betta fish food said to only feed him 2-3 days, so we fed him on Thursday and again on Sunday. <Every day in small amounts is better, but every 2-3 days is fine.> I looked in his tank on Sunday, and it was starting to get weird looking already.  Poor "George" had a scummy look to him, bubbles on the top of the water, etc. <Water quality issue.> Then 2 hours later, I looked at him again, and his poor little lips were at the surface, and his body was vertical!  I decided to change his water already, and when I transferred him, he sank to the bottom and just stayed there to die.  We want to get another one, but not if we are going to kill the poor thing.  What can we do better this time?
<Few things, all covered on WetWeb.  Try http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/betta_splendens.htm
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/bettasysart.htm
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/fwestcycling.htm
Should give you a good base line to understanding what is happening.>
I had looked at a few sites last night to see if I could find something, but I didn't see anything that we did wrong.  I did see some sites say to feed 2-3 times a day, and scoop out the remaining food with a net, so they don't over eat.  But our fish food jar said 2-3 DAYS, not times per day.  So I am fearing now that we starved him. <Unlikely, can go up to a week without eating with minimal effects.>  I am just so confused.  
Please help.
<Will try.>
Jamie K.
<Chris> 

Sick Betta Fish   7/6/06
I have a betta fish named Bubbles and I noticed the other day that his belly is bloated but his scales are not sticking out like a pinecone.  And today I noticed that one of his ventral fins is gone.  He is eating fine and swims around like normal. Can you please help me out with my betta fish?  Thank you.
Sally
<Mmm, not with the information presented. Need to know more re this fish's system, history, water quality, foods. Please read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/bettasysart.htm
and here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/bettadiseases.htm
and the linked files above... write back with more data. Bob Fenner>

Poor Betta, English   6/17/06
hi bob, i have just noticed that my Siamese fighting fish male has a hugely distended abdomen which seems to be  filled with clear liquid. Could you please advise me as to what this could be and if it is treatable he seems to be able to swim around ok and his appetite also seems to be normal. All his normal behaviour also seems to be in place, and his fins are clamped to his body or  down at all, which has left me somewhat intrigued .
  i look forward to your reply on this matter in the near future
    Sam
<Please read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/bettadiseases.htm
and the linked files above. Bob Fenner>

Re: Poor Betta, English, a non-reader   6/18/06
Hi Bob
   <Sam>
  Thank you once again for your help  as i
<I>
can see it looks like a case of body bloat or Popeye and i will treat him accordingly  is there a particular cause for this sort of thing that i could try to avoid
<... is posted on WWM>
in the future as i know my partner thinks so much of this fish and its wonderful colours, it is a burgundy and blue colour with bright red tips to its fins which are amazingly long and its color seems to be getting more vibrant the longer we have it  i look forward to your response in the near future    
  Sam
<Read my friend, read. Bob Fenner>

Questions about Questions 4/09/06
Hi,
Just read through your articles and have a few Betta questions. But first I'd like to be sure that this is something you still do.
Thanks, Gail
<We sure do, what did you have questions about? Best regards Gage>

My betta fish    4/9/06
Hello, my betta fish is about 3 years of age. and he has been very healthy and active his life.
<This is a good long while to keep this species alive, healthy>
but for the last few months he has not been eating normal. he lays on his back, floats straight up and down (as where he looks as if he's standing on his tail. he has trouble swimming, and rarely tries. he does have moments where he bolts to the top of the bowl.
<... not heated, filtered?>
he also has a black spot near his gill that has just recently appeared. his gills look very black and non normal. his eyes do look very swollen at times. and he just sits straight up facing the top of the bowl. do you know what could be wrong with my betta?!
  sincerely:
  holly
<Maybe. Please read here: http://wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/bettasysart.htm
and the linked files above. Bob Fenner>

Siamese Fighting Fish, life, universe, everything    3/31/06
Hello,
<Hi there! (Doing his best Doug Adam's movie computer voice)>
I saw your information on the web, and wanted to ask you about a fish I have.  He was lying on his side in a container at Wal-Mart and looking
awful, so I bought him to hopefully treat him.  I bought also Fungus Clear and Parasite Clear made by Jungle Laboratories.  He also has a large bulge on both sides near his tail. We used the fungus clear because we thought it was his swim bladder, but later used the parasite clear because we were told that that bulge could be
a parasite.  We also put a bubbler with him because we thought this would help.
I have talked to several people, two were with the Jungle Labs about what to do for him.  Nobody has any clear cut ideas about what to do for him.  I read your article about adding salt,
<You've done this... "in aces" with the addition of their products>
and we have used that on other fish we have and it has worked great.  But this guy has a whole lot wrong with him.  
That is why I bought the medicine.
Could you please tell me what you think.  He is a young fish.  He has lived all week on his side, not moving very much.
Thank you so much.
Cindy
<Please read here: http://wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/bettadiseases.htm
and the linked files above, particularly (after Disease) on Betta Systems. Bob Fenner>

Unknown Problem - 3/24/2006
Hey,
It's Renee again.
<<You did not put who you spoke to previously. This is Lisa.>>
I just wanted to know what I can do for my fish that has Pop-Eye. I would be very hurt if I lost this fish.
Can you help me please?
<<Such is posted on WWM.  You do not even give the species here.  Please read.  Lisa.>>
Renee
Lisa. My fish is a Betta.
It has pop-eye.
I've spoken to several different people every time I email ya'll. So I am never too sure who is going to get my email, so I leave it open for anyone. I am sorry.
<<It's ok Renee, but all is still posted on WWM.  Lisa>>
Now will you please help me?
Renee.

Betta Feeding Question    3/24/06
Robert:
<<Lisa with you today!>>
I just recently got a blue Siamese fighting fish, is that a Betta fish?
<<Certainly is.>>
Anyway it doesn't seem to want to eat dried foods and I was wondering if I could feed it raw or cooked fresh salmon?
<<I would not.  Please Google Betta splendens on WWM for proper care & feeding.  Lisa.>>
Bob Eckess

Google: Betta, Compatible, Tankmates:   2/7/06
I have a approximately 3yr old Betta, who I surmise to be a male as he has flowing fins w/vibrant colors.  I upscaled to a 10 gal tank today.  All I have had with him is a water frog.  What else is compatible with a Betta?  
  Thanks
  Kim Gillespie
<Google: Betta, Compatible, Tankmates: Betta, Compatible, Tankmates
Bob Fenner>

Snail and betta fish reproduction   1/26/06
Hello Bob,
I have two questions, the first is how can I encourage my snails to reproduce? (what kind of plants to put in the aquarium, amounts of food, etc...)
<Depends on species (some like hard, alkaline water of lower temp.... others the opposite for instance), but feeding with green-based foods, providing sufficient alkalinity, about the right pH, regular water changes... having some of both sexes if of this nature... is about all that's called for>
My second question is about betta fish. My husband and i are interested in breeding our rare and very beautiful male bettas with our also very rare and beautiful female bettas. Can you give us some beginners tips?????
<Mmm, wish I could readily do so. I worked (cleaning mostly) at such a facility as a youth for two years, and have bred Bettas... but would take a few hours to put my thoughts, recollections together. Please use the Google Search Tool on WWM with the terms "Betta Breeding" for what is posted/archived>
Thank you so much
Carrie
please email me back!!!
<Bob Fenner>

Betta Keeping, life lessons  12/24/05
I am really not looking for help at this point as it is too late for that, however I am trying to find some answers to educate myself.  Please forgive me,
as I have never owned a fish and am not knowledgeable about them.  To give you a little background on my story, I bought a blue and red male Betta for my
girlfriend in August to keep her company at college.  She named him Napoleon, and he always did great.  He lived in a little round glass fish bowl until late
September when they both moved back home with me.  We bought a one gallon tank and a thing that circulates the water.  We put some rocks and a couple little
fake plants in with him.  We changed his water completely and washed the rocks and plants once a week every Sunday and then half his water on Tuesdays and
half on Fridays, always making sure it was distilled room temperature before putting Napoleon in it.
<Good technique for temp., but distilled not desirable>
I don't know anything about ammonia or nitrates or PH levels like you talk about, and that is something we regretfully never
checked.  Napoleon was great and after he moved back home his colors became very vibrant.  Everything was going fine until this week.  We changed his water on Sunday, cleaned the tank and rocks, and put it all back together.  We used distilled water warmed to room temperature  (about 78 degrees) and life was good so far.  (On a side note we fed him 4 pellets in the morning and 4 in the evening. We thought since he was bigger than most Bettas he needed to eat more, I'm
not sure if we were wrong in doing this.)  We changed half his water on Tuesday and he was his happy little self.  On Wednesday morning we noticed that he
was a little lethargic and didn't swim all over his bowl, only swam up to the top to get his food.  I looked on the internet and couldn't find anything that
fit his symptoms, although I thought maybe he was starting to get constipated.  Unfortunately I had to take my girlfriend to the emergency room Wednesday
night (she's alright) so I had my mom stop by to check on Napoleon and she called me to tell me he wasn't looking very good.  When I got home he was floating
on his side at the top of the bowl.  I thought at that point he was dead, and I tried to retrieve him and he uprighted himself and swam spastically all over
the bowl before floating on his side again.  Realizing he was still alive, the first thing I did was change his water and again all he did was float
sideways.  I did the pea thing and dropped it right in front of him and he took it in his mouth and spit it back out.  He wouldn't eat anything.  I couldn't get to
a pet store until Thursday morning so I said a little prayer that if he was suffering that he would go onto a better place and not hurt anymore.  When I
awoke Thursday morning he was still floating on his side and I noticed that he had lost all color (completely white)
<Not good>
around his fins and the back of his head, nowhere else, and both of his eyes were bulging out.  Again I thought he was
dead and tried to retrieve him, and he swam away and started floating again.   I called a pet store and the clerk there told me to either flush him alive and
not deal with it or put him in a Ziploc bag with some water and stick him in the freezer until he died.  Neither of these sounded humane and I don't
believe in flushing fish down the toilet, and I couldn't freeze the poor guy to death.  As I was trying to track down another pet store, dear Napoleon left his
world.  As bad as it sounds I didn't realize how attached I was to the little guy until he passed away.  I feel like a horrible horrible person for causing
him to suffer.  After looking on your site, I cannot find any information that matches the symptoms he had.  He didn't have any white spots or evidence of
fungus, he wasn't bloated, the only thing I could find was about the Popeye and it seems to me that was a secondary symptom.  I would like to know if any of you
guys might know what happened?
<Mmm, likely "just" environmental stress...>
I'm sure it had something to do with our changing his water this week, but we did everything the same as we always had.  
Whatever we did was bad enough it only took a few days for it to kill the fish.   We would like to know what we did wrong and what caused it, because we are at
a loss.  I am really hoping that what I have told you rings a bell and you can tell us what happened to our poor Napoleon.  We are thinking about getting
another Betta in the future as they are such magnificent creatures, but we don't want to risk hurting another fish.  It is a heavy load on my shoulders
knowing that something I did caused the poor thing to suffer.  If you could educate me on what steps were wrong that we took I would appreciate it.  I don't ever
want this to happen again if we get another fish.  Any help you could give would be greatly appreciated!  Thank you very much!
<Thank you for writing. So clearly, and showing your care. And do take a read here: http://wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/bettasysart.htm
Bob Fenner>

5 year old betta  12/12/05
Hello from San Diego.
<Hello! John here with you this evening from cold and wet Shanghai>  
We have a Betta who is 5 years old, yes 5!
<This is good going!>
The man that we bought him from is very impressed.  We didn't realize what a long life this has been for a Betta. He has a large bowl with a peace lily.  Recently our dog (who is 14 1/2) took his plant out and ate part of it. Our poor Betta was lethargic and laying on the bottom of the bowl nestled in the crease at the base.
<I had a similar experience when my cats went digging in my old Betta tank a few years ago.>
His color was pale and he didn't want to eat.  Swimming seemed to be an effort and he seemed heavy, like he is sinking.  Of course we got him some more plants to cheer him up (making sure that the leaves stay underwater so that our boy Bugsy doesn't eat them.)  His color is now much better and he has perked up a bit. He also is moving his eyes.  Before they were stationary.  He is able to lay on leaves close to the surface and easily gulp air now which seems to be helping a lot.  The best part is that he has made some bubble nests!  We can't help but feel that he is saying thank you and that he is happy, but he still is not eating.
<His predicament does sound somewhat better.>
Usually we give him his food and give a tap to let him know it's there.  He has always been a good eater, and a bit of a beggar. He even knows how to snap bubbles to get our attention (smart fish!) For the past 3 or 4 days we tap but feel as if he can't really see it.  We always tell our animals that they are going to live forever but it seems that maybe he is tired and ready to leave.  We just want him to be happy and comfortable. Do you think that he might pull through?
<You betta has lived a long live... but it is certainly possible that he could pull through. Make sure the water quality is pristine, and temperature is stable. You could try feeding a few (thawed) frozen bloodworms, or soaking his food in garlic to improve his appetite.>
Thank you for your time
<You're welcome. Good luck to you and your anabantoid friend. John.>

Thank you for help saving my Siamese fighting fish's life  11/19/05
I don't know you but I followed your advice on the Siamese fighting fish website and so far what you suggested seems to be working miracles. I went to bed 2 nights ago and my fish was laying all the way at the bottom of his tank, not moving. This has never happened before in the year that I have had him. I woke up and he was in the same place. I cried because I thought he was dead. I tried to get his attention and after about 5 minutes I saw some movement. It was a miracle. I had already said my last goodbyes and I was ecstatic with joy. With this new hope, I quickly changed his water, added sea salt and raised his temperature to 85 degrees. I also added some new plants. He seems to be doing a lot better. Thank you so much.
<Welcome>
I still have some questions though.  He is a 16 gallon tank and I raised his temperature I think from 78-80 to 85 but how long do I keep it at 85?
<A week or so>
Keep in mind, when I added the bottled water to his tank, unfortunately the water was not as warm as usual when I add it. I usually leave 8 or 9 jugs in the sun for a while but because time was of the essence, I felt that it was more important to get new water in instead of waiting 6 hours for it to get warm in the sun. I know it was much colder than he's used to but I felt I had no choice so I cranked up the heater.
I also added 3 spoons of salt water like you suggested. Should I add more today?
<Mmm, no. This is about the right amount total>
I am actually on my way to the store to buy a thermometer so I can know the exact temp.  
By the way, I am a musician and I wrote a song about my last Siamese fighting fish. Since your information and love for the breed saved my new fish's life, I want to send you a free CD that has the song on it. Please let me know your mailing address.
Much Gratitude,
Jeff
<Thank you. 8586 Menkar Rd., San Diego, CA 92126. Bob Fenner> <<Should've asked to send on the Net... so could be shared. RMF>>

About my Betta Fish 10/13/05
Hello!
My name is Patricia Flores. 
<Hi! Catherine, here.> 
I am from Bakersfield, California. 
<Originally NC, now in Pasadena, CA.> 
I have had my Betta fish since August of 2002. Is it normal for a Betta fish to live for more than three years? 
<With good care these fish often live to about 3 years. About a decade ago, 5 was not uncommon, but as they've been bred and inbred, 3 seems to be about maximum. Congrats on good fish husbandry. Catherine> 

Betta Beginnings - 09/02/2005
Hi. I just got 3 bettas for about 4 days now.
<Much to learn!  Uh, also, PLEASE learn to capitalize properly....  including "I", "I'm", the beginnings of sentences, etc....  We have to fix these errors prior to posting on the site.  It gets very tedious.>
I have some concerns/questions:
1: Summer is almost over, and its getting colder. The temperature at my house during the day is around 80+ degrees, and it gets around the 70s at night. I know that it is going to be colder when fall hits (I live in California).
<Me, too.>
So my question is: do I need a heater for my fishes (keep in mind that I have 3 small bowls--will it fit?),
<Yes, you do, and no, it won't fit in a small bowl.>
and if so, how much is the cheapest, and are they innovative ways to keep the bowls warmer with household products?
<Aside from keeping the room they are in at a constant temperature, there is no such method.>
2: My bettas are 3 inches (so they are adult, I guess). Well, I'm afraid I am overfeeding them. the problem is, they constantly go to the water surface for food, and feeling sorry for them, I feed them.
I've been feeding them at least 4 pellets and 2 bloodworms a day, per fish. So my question is: am I feeding too much? How many pellets and bloodworms should I feed each betta?    
<I would offer them this same amount of food every other day.>
3: I've done research, I found out that bettas can be ear damaged if the volume of say, the TV and boom box, is too loud. And what's more, they can be stressed by the aggravation, and thus, die sooner.
<Correct.>
So my question is: how loud is too loud, for the TV, and for the
boom box?
<I haven't got a decibel statistic for you; use common sense and discretion, and keep your animals far from these devices.>
4: I read from your forum that bettas like to live in aquariums of at least a quart.
<That's a hazardous minimum.  I urge systems of 2 gallons or more, for environmental stability, which is of the utmost importance to the longevity of ANY fish.>
Two of them are in a fish bowl of dimensions of a 1.5 inch radius (3 inches in diameter), by 5.5 inches tall,
<Distressingly small, and impossible to keep stable....>
and those two are way more happy in them (they blow bubble nests regularly)  
<You've had the animals less than a week....  I assure you, these volumes are far too small for long-term survival.  Such containers are developed for people who tend to be more interested in aesthetics than the lives forced to live in such confines.  These fish will not be "happy" for a great deal of time, I fear.>
than my other fish, which is in a 1.5 quart aquarium, and it was 2 days late in blowing bubbles nests.
<Even this is too small....  but better, at least.  Bubblenests, this early on, are pretty much irrelevant in gauging the fish's status.>
The question is, should I upgrade to a bigger aquarium?
<I would, absolutely, if at all possible.  A 10 gallon tank divided into three sections with substrate and decor would be great.>
Thank you so much for getting the time out to help me.
<Please read more here:  http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/bettasysart.htm .  Wishing you well,  -Sabrina>

Betta Beginnings - II - 09/04/2005
Hello Sabrina.
<Hello, again!>
Thank you so much for helping me out so quickly. I wish every business was as reliant as you. I will be getting a bigger aquarium soon, equipped with a heater, so rest assured, my bettas will no
longer be suffering.
<Wonderful to hear, my friend!!>
P.S.: I capitalized just for you!
<I am truly grateful.  Thank you very much.  Wishing you and your scaly pals well,  -Sabrina>

Please help, is my betta dying?  8/31/05
I've searched your website and still haven't found the signs that my betta is going through.
<OK, I'll try to help...this is Jorie.>
He hasn't been eating for the past 4 days, all he does is lay in the corner of the bowl at the bottom and he is breathing really hard like he's gasping for breath. I have no other fish nor do I have plants in the bowl with him. I cleaned it out the same way as I always do, same temperature and I wait about 5 min.s before I put him back in cuz I use the stuff to take the chlorine out of the water.
<I'm glad you are doing regular water changes, but am  little concerned with the method you describe.  You shouldn't be removing the fish each time, as this will needlessly stress him out.  Rather, prepare the water the night before you plan to do the change, add the chlorine remover, and you'll be all ready to go the next day.  Do you have a test kit? Just in case, take a reading for ammonia, nitrite and nitrate to make sure everything is OK. Regardless, it sounds like there's something in his environment bothering him, so I'd suggest another water change.>
My boyfriend thinks he might be blind because the fish is very fidgety if you tap on the bowl or the desk where he's at, he will go nuts like he can't see.
<He probably just doesn't like you tapping on his house!  Some bettas, additionally, are more sensitive than others - this one could be overly skittish.>
I've had him for 8 months now and everything was fine till about 2 days ago. Is this a sign he's going to die or is he just going through a phase and will snap out of it. I'm very concerned since I grown attached to him and I don't want to see him die. Please help!
<Hopefully this isn't the end for your little friend.  I will tell you that 2 years is considered a pretty long life for a betta; who knows how old your guy was when you got him 8 mos. ago.  Bettas tend to exhibit slow signs of aging, just as elderly humans do...it's not a drastic thing like you describe.  Test the water, do a water change, and keep a close eye on him for signs of disease, etc.  With regards to not eating, bettas can go a week or so without eating and without having problems...you could try adding garlic extract to the water with his next feeding (just a drop) to see if you can peak his interest. Good luck, Jorie>

Betta help 8/24/05
Hi. My Betta (I've  had since April) recently started acting funny. I noticed today a swollen stomach and he clearly has no interest in eating. Another concern is he is always at the top of the water, in the corner of the tank, with his head bobbing in and out of the water as if gulping air. Anything I should be concerned about? I recently changed  the water but I followed the same routine as any other time.
Thanks for your time, D. Roberts
<... I would be, am concerned... is this fish in a heated, filtered setting? Please read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/bettasysart.htm
and the linked files above... Enjoy the education. Bob Fenner>

Single Male Betta - Has stopped making nests!  :-( 8/9/05
Thank you for this wonderful site -- best on the net!
<Welcome>
My male beta is the greatest 'friend'!  Happy always and loves to be 'petted'. (yes petted)  Very affectionate and social he is.  He is approx. 1 year old now, has always made nice small nests surrounding the edges of his takes that keep him busy (he is alone in his tank), but about 3 weeks ago he stopped making nests.
<Happens... temperature, water quality, nutrition... age... sigh>
Nothing is different with his surroundings or feeding habits.  His color and attitude are still great.. he just doesn't make his nests anymore is all.  Is this common or might I have cause to be concerned about my loving 'baby boy & friend'? :-(   Thank you for your help.  Concerned - Wendy
<Do try improving on all the above fronts (save age)... Please read through our Betta Articles and FAQs files re:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/fwlivestkindex.htm
Scroll down...
Bob Fenner>

A Betta's usual fate 8/4/05
   My Betta fish's name is Leroy, and he is a chipper and perky fish. He likes to swim tons and I got him merely 3 or 4 days ago. I put him in little over a gallon vase. I put in his tablets for the ph level and chlorine in tap water, and lowered him in the tank in a baggy to get used to his temperature. I cleaned everything out before I put him in. After one day his tank got incredibly cloudy. I figured it was the rocks so I got some aquarium rocks washed them off and changed his water, once again adding tablets and cleaning everything off. The next day his water became cloudy again. He had not eaten some food and it made the water cloudy. I thought that was the problem so I bought new food that doesn't make the water cloudy and I make sure he eats it before I leave. However today his tank is cloudy again, and last night there were white bubbles on the side of his tank in a small group. I scooped them out, but I didn't clean his water. I'm new at this help me out. Is something wrong or are looks deceiving?
- Rosey
<Please read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/bettasysart.htm
and the linked files above. Bob Fenner>

Betta companions 8/4/05
We just moved our male Betta into a three gallon tank.  We would like to add one or two more fish.  What kinds would get along the best?
<Please read here:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/betcompfaqs.htm
Bob Fenner>

Betta friend(s)? 8/3/05
Hello, my name is Lindsay and I have a question concerning companions for my
one male Betta Fish. First of all, I plan on buying a 3 or 5 gallon tank (i
would prefer to buy a three gallon because it is less expensive and takes up
less space, however, if it is impossible to fit other fish in with him at that
point, i will consider a five gallon) as well as a filter and heater. Taking
these conditions into consideration, I would like to know who the best possible
tankmate(s) for my Betta could be. By the way, this is a great site.
Thank you,
Lindsay
<Please read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/betcompfaqs.htm
Bob Fenner>

Betta Not eating 7/30/05
My Betta been acting funny lately, he hasn't been eating for the past 2 days and he seems depressed. I only have him in a bowl by himself, and I've never had him with any other fish. I'm not sure what's wrong do you have any idea?
~ Jonna
<All sorts... please read, starting here: http://wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/bettasysart.htm
then on to the linked files above. Bob Fenner>

I need help! Help yourself... re Bettas, WWM 7/26/05
Hi. My name's Kara, and I was wondering if you could help me with a problem
I'm having with my Betta. I've had my Betta for a little over a year, and
he's
always been very healthy, had a great appetite, etc. But, a few days ago
something went wrong. He won't eat, and all he does is sit at the very top
of the
bowl not moving at all. I even tried putting a mirror up to him to see if he
would try to fight it because he always did, but he ignored it. What's wrong
with
him? Is he dying? I don't want him to die!!!!!! Can you please help me, I'm
afraid we might be running out of time! What do I do?
<... have you read the articles and FAQs files on Bettas posted on WWM re Bettas? Please: http://www.google.com/custom?q=Bettas&sitesearch=wetwebmedia.com
Bob Fenner>

Rubi, My Red Betta 7/26/05
Hi my name is Victor Lopez, and well, I have several questions about my Betta
fish I don't know if my fish is a Female or male?
<Males are much larger, have much longer, pointed unpaired fins>
..... but I purchased it in a cup.
<Almost assuredly a male>
It is red and it is around a length of about an inch and a half, Though
recently around three days ago I placed a plant in her bowl and I discovered
bubbles all under a leaf what can this mean I haven't paired it with any other
fish? Will it be alright if I wash the bowl weekly even with the bubbles
under the single leaf? I need an answer please, Can you help?
Thank you - Victor
<All this and more is answered, offered on WWM... please read: http://www.google.com/custom?q=Bettas&sitesearch=wetwebmedia.com
Bob Fenner>

Goldfish problem and a Betta question 7/9/05
I just got into fish hobby about 4 months ago - unfortunately with very unprofessional help from a pet store I ended up with 2 fantail gold fishes in 8ltr (2gl) tank.
<ouch - I wouldn't shop there again if I were you>
One of them got sick and I have put him into separate 10 ltr tank - he had lots of white cotton stuff on the head, fins and tail. I have treated the water with fin rot medicine, added a tea spoon of salt in the aquarium and also made him few salt baths after which he seemed to be getting much better.
<The antibiotic should do the trick - the salt is unnecessary>
Almost all white stuff was gone and only the tips of fins/tail were reddish. I continued the treatment, but after some time he started to get the white growth once more and now I don't know what to do. A new 150ltr tank needs another 2-3 days to be finished but I am afraid to move him into the tank while sick since I don't want to risk my other gold fish. Pls help!
<Keep the goldfish in it's current aquarium, and make sure to follow the instructions on the medication - do NOT discontinue treatment sooner!  If you're not having luck with that medication, complete the treatment (usually 5-7 days) then do a 100% water change, and try using something like Furan-2, or Nitrofurazone.  Regarding your new tank, remember that new tanks need to be cycled!  Here is some further reading:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/gldfshsystems.htm
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/fwestcycling.htm>
And... now about a Betta - I got one of these by accident - felt sorry for a beautiful fish kept in a ve-e-ery small bowl in a pet store. He's got a 10 ltr tank now and looks happy.
<Sounds good>
The pet store also sold me a Chinese algae eater as a good company for Betta, but after some time it became too friendly and started trying to 'kiss' Betta.
<Definitely not a good tank for a "Chinese algae eater".  Keep the beta by itself, and return the new fish> So the question is what fish can I put into Betta tank (with filter) to pick up all the sinking food?
<None - just be sure to completely clean out the tank once a week or so, or purchase a filter>
My Betta seems to believe that whatever sinks is not food any more and gravel ends up collecting leftovers.
<As do all bettas/Betta tanks :)  Try floating foods for less mess (make sure to feed a variety, though - they love mosquito larvae btw :>)
Thank you.
<You're welcome, and please consult the further reading in the links above, as well as this one: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/fwsetupindex.htm>
Svetlana.
<Neat name ;)  M.Maddox>

Re: follow up on "goldfish problem and Betta question" 7/10/05
Dear M.Maddox,
<How goes it?>
The answer was really helpful, so I decided to try your patience with one
more question: stocking scheme, since I don't seem to find enough info on
it.
<That's what WWM is for :)>
At the moment I have 2 goldfishes fan tails (guess very small ones -
about 3&4 cm) in two separate tanks. I will be moving them into 150ltr tank
as soon as it's cycled and I've been breaking my head about appropriate
tankmates.
<Ouch - the medical bills!>
I am quite set on adding a black Oranda to the company but not
sure about the rest.
<Goldfish always get along fine with other goldfish>
First of all I have to say that the goldfishes I have
are quite used to high temperatures - I live in Cyprus where "normal" summer
temp is about 37-40 and winter ~20-27.
<They do prefer slightly cooler temperatures, but are very hardy>
So, do you think it might be possible
to add 2-3 Corys to the set up?
<Not sure what a "Cory" is, I'll need the scientific (Latin) name>
Tank =150ltr, filters - Penguin Power
Filter 350B + biofilter that had no name on the box and capacity up to
200ltr, planning to put some light on it and a filter for winter if Corys
are ok for the tank.
<Your filtration sounds fine>
Beside the temperature differences are there any other reasons for keeping
gold fish separate from Corys?
<Like I said, let me know the scientific name of that species and I will be able to answer that for you>
Thank you again.
And I have to compliment you, it's the first site that is really helpful - and I
did spent rather lot's of time looking for the info around after realizing
local pet shops won't be of any help.
<You're most welcome - WWM really is a wealth of information, due to the hard work of many.  It's helped me several times>
Thanks.
<Anytime>
Svetlana.
<M. Maddox>

My Betta 7/6/05
hi
       When I got my Betta it was a very nice colour of blue and now it's blue-gray. What should I do? Can they live on flakes or pebble type food?
<Please read here re your Betta:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/betta_splendens.htm
and the linked files above re Behavior, Feeding.
Bob Fenner>

Travel with Betta fish 7/4/05
Hello,
My name is Rachel. I have two Betta fish in a five gallon tank. I will
be moving six hours from where I am currently living. I plan to take
my fish with me and would like to know if there are any suggestions on
how to travel with them. Thanks!
Rachel
<Bettas, being aerial respirators, travel very well just being bagged up in some of their water, packed in thermally insulated containers... sometimes for days. Bob Fenner>

Betta article  07/02/05
Just read your article in Pet Age.
<An industry periodical>
Just wanted to tell you great job.
Schuyler Sloane (Mr. sky)
Founder and president of The Northeast Philadelphia Aquarium Society
Visit us on the web @ www.phillyfishclub.com
<Thank you for this... Want to impart my thanks to the editor there... We had a "misunderstanding" or better, lack of understanding re the content of this piece... This series is more "pro" toward advertisers, extant products... But I am adverse <<or rather averse... >> to promoting poor practices, products and techniques that are harmful or just non-beneficial to our aquatic charges. In this case, the little death traps which are unfiltered, unheated "bowls" for Bettas mainly. To her credit and perseverance, the article was not tossed... or much modified. Bob Fenner>

Cart afore the Betta purchase
Hi,
I just bought a female Betta and i already had a male. Well, i don't know if i should put the two together. I don't know if they will fight or lay eggs or anything else, i just don't want them to kill each other!- What do i do! thank you Cassie
<Please read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/betta_splendens.htm
and the linked files above. Bob Fenner>

Dried blood worms
Hi,
<Hello there>
I have had my Betta for about 3 weeks and he is doing great, makes bubbles nests every time I clean his water.  He is in a 1 gallon fish bowl that I clean 1 to 2 times every week.
<Good>
He will ONLY eat bloodworms, will he be ok with this diet.  
<Mmm, no, not indefinitely... I'd start mixing in other freeze-dried, frozen-defrosted, fresh... even specialty "Betta" pelleted foods to wean him off this exclusive diet>
Another question, how much should I be feeding him and how many times a day?
<This is posted on WWM... http://www.wetwebmedia.com/FWSubWebIndex/betfdgfaqs.htm
please read there. Bob Fenner>
Thank you,
Sharon