Betta with mild fin rot

[Crissyloach]

I got a beautiful betta about 2 month ago. He is healthy, eating, active, and colorful. This morning, I noticed that his fins were starting to rot away. It is not serious yet, and I tink I saw this case at the right time. I have had fin rot with my other bettas, and only 1 of them made it... I would like to treat him and get him back to normal because he is 1 of my best ones.

I have done a large water change- cleaning the gravel well. I have only silk plants in there.

I have some aquarium salt, fungus clear, and maracyn. If I need anything else I will try to get it.

I guess I need to know the best way to treat him and keep him healthy.

[starsplitter7]

Check the Maracyn. I would cee if it treats fin rot. I like maracyn. But wait until an expert comes along with some advice, just to make sure.

Also check your water readings. I would have suggested a water change, just like you did. But make sure you didn't crash your tank.

[Crissyloach]

I have put in some fungus clear. He is doing fine but his fins are looking very torn. He has some large tears in his caudal fin. It is not as dark as it used to be and he seems to be more active. I hope he heals well and does not look too bad.

[Crissyloach]

It is getting a lot worse...

[starsplitter7]

What are your water readings? Ammonia, Nitrite and Nitrate?

[Crissyloach]

The rot is slowing, and the tips are not as black anymore- there are still some black spots. I am onto my 2nd dose of fungus clear, and I am noticing improvement.

[starsplitter7]

Excellent. Hopefully things are turning around. Keep us posted.

[Crissyloach]

I have stopped treatment- no more black edges. Is there anything I can do to start the re-growth? His fins are un-even- long bits and short bits- used to be perfectly round. I know to keep the water as clean as possible- anything else? I am planning on putting some java moss in there too.

[starsplitter7]

Does your Betta have a heater? I know Bettas need warmer water, and often they don't have heaters.

[Crissyloach]

Yes, my betta has a heater.

[starsplitter7]

Clean water and a heater should help him recover. Beyond that, a person with more experience needs to speak up.

[Crissyloach]

I am going to set up a better tank for him- Better filtration, and more room for him to swim.