How to Identify Fin Rot on a Betta Fish

The flowing fins and vibrant colors of the betta fish make it a popular pet among aquarist. These beautiful fish get easily stressed and need proper care to maintain their well-being. An unclean aquarium, a crowded living environment and overfeeding can stress your betta and give rise to bacterial infections such as fin rot. Fin rot is a progressive disease that you can effectively treat in the early stages. Regularly observe your betta to identify the symptoms of fin rot disease.

Instructions

    • 1

      Pay attention to the overall color of your betta. If it is paler than normal, it could be a sign of fin rot.

    • 2

      Observe the fins for signs of clumping. Clumped fins with ragged edges are an early indicator of fin rot in your betta. A healthy betta̵7;s fins are spread open like a fan and the edges are smooth, not ragged.

    • 3

      Check the size of your betta̵7;s fins. If its flowing fins look smaller in size than normal, and keep reducing with time, fin rot has set in.

    • 4

      Examine the edges of the fins for a white fuzzy growth. This is a secondary infection known as cotton wool or saddleback disease. If left untreated, it can cause the fin edges to turn slimy, red and inflamed with bloody patches. Edges that are turning black or bright red can also indicate fin rot.

    • 5

      Look out for missing fin portions. If the fins have small holes, a transparent texture and seem to be coming apart in sections, fin rot may have advanced and progressed to other parts of your betta̵7;s body.