Analysis & Solutions for Betta Fin Rot (Tail Rot)
I. 4 Core Causes of Fin Rot
1. Poor Water Quality (Accounts for 70% of Cases)
Elevated ammonia/nitrite levels (test result > 0.5mg/L).
Insufficient water changes (recommended: replace 1/3 of tank water weekly with aged, dechlorinated water).
2. Bacterial Infection
Common pathogens:
Flavobacterium columnare (causes white edges on fins).
Pseudomonas (causes fin redness/inflammation).
High-risk conditions: Water temperature above 30°C (86°F) or below 20°C (68°F), which weakens the betta’s immune system.
3. Physical Damage
Aggression during cohabitation (bettas are highly territorial and require single-tank housing).
Scrapes from tank decor (e.g., sharp driftwood, plastic plants).
4. Nutritional Deficiency
Long-term feeding of a single-type diet leads to vitamin C deficiency, impairing tissue repair.
II. Targeted Solutions
1. Water Quality Management
Emergency Treatment
Immediately replace 50% of the tank water and add a water conditioner (e.g., Seachem Prime).
Fast the betta for 1 day to reduce waste-related water pollution.
Long-Term Maintenance
Install a small filter (e.g., a hang-on-back waterfall filter) to maintain water circulation.
Test pH levels weekly (optimal range: 6.5–7.5).
2. Medication Treatment
Bacterial Fin Rot
Furacilin Bath: Add 0.1g of furacilin to 10L of water; bathe the betta once daily for 3 consecutive days.
Coarse Salt Support: Use a 0.3% salt concentration (3g of salt per 1L of water).
Fungal Infection (White, Cotton-Like Growth)
Bathe the betta in a methylene blue solution (0.5mg/L concentration).
3. Environmental Adjustments
Remove all sharp decor; replace with soft alternatives like moss balls or flexible live plants.
Isolate the sick betta in a separate tank to prevent cross-contamination.
4. Nutritional Supplementation
Feed high-protein foods (e.g., bloodworms, frozen-dried red worms).
Add B-complex vitamins (can be crushed and mixed into food).
III. Preventive Measures
Disinfect new bettas with a 3% salt solution soak for 5 minutes before introducing them to the tank.
Avoid direct sunlight exposure (algae blooms will deplete oxygen).
Reduce water change frequency during breeding (to prevent stress).
Note: If fin rot affects more than 50% of the fins, or is accompanied by symptoms like pineconing (scales standing up) or cloudy eyes, a systemic infection may be present. Consult a professional aquatic veterinarian for further guidance.