Possibly Ill Betta - Clamped Fins

[phillis]

Hi All,

I'm new to this forum but been thoroughly recommended it by my girlfriend.

I've recently purchased a betta fish and his fins have clamped up. I got him from our local aquarium shop and looked healthy.

He is still eating (lots) and is still very active (likes to flare at the mirror). Is it just stress from being moved to a new home or something else?

Tank Size 4.5 Gallons, temperature 26 Degrees, water stats unknown (will check tomorrow). In the tank on his own. Had him a week today

Thank you

 

[Oscar Betta]

Clamped fins could mean something is wrong with the tank. What are your water stats?

 

[phillis]

Unknown until tomorrow.

 

[WILDER]

Need water stats checking out, as clamped fins can be due to bad water quality, stress, disease.

Did you cycle the tank before adding the betta.

Also ask the lfs to write the readings down for you.

For now water change and increase aeration.
If there only the betta in the tank add a tablespoon of salt.
Get a jug of water and add the salt, stir till it desolves and add to the tank.

 

[phillis]

Hi,

Sorry for the late reply back.

The water was cycled for nearly 2 weeks prior to the getting the betta fish.

I've been doing a 1/2 water change every other day. His appetite is definately still there.

He doesn't seem to be getting any better though on the fins. I didnt manage to get a water test done but I have a tester kit now so will be able to check tonight.

@WILDER : You mentioned adding salt to his water. What type of salt is that? Sorry I am quite new to this whole thing.

Also was wondering if he wasnt just lonely as well he did have other fish in the tank with him at the shop and had been there atleast 4 weeks with them. Was wondering if I did get any fish for the tank what could i put with him? (I would be moving him into a 8.5 gallon tank)

Thank you again in advance.

 

[WILDER]

The tanks dosn't sound cycled then.
To cycle a tank you need mature filter sponges taken from another tank.
Or bio spira which you add to the tank.

Tonic salt, aquarium salt, or household salt in small doses is fine.
Add 3 teaspoons of salt for now to a jug of tank water. Stir the salt till it dissolves and add to the tank.

Test water before you do a water change.
As readings can be false after a water change for a few hours.

 

[phillis]

Thank you again for the advice. Will start doing that tonight Will keep up to date with any changes.

 

[the biffster]

Thank you again for the advice. Will start doing that tonight Will keep up to date with any changes.

i think this might make essential
reading it the link to the resources center

http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?/topic/141946-cycling-resource-center/