Question about my new boy

[juliethegr8t]

I decided not to get a heater for him, since I can't really afford one after springing for his spacious home, and also because I decided leaving the light (incandesant)on during the day (or at least part of it) will help keep the water a tad warmer. However, as soon as I turned it on this morning, "Jack" started flaring at his reflection in the back and sides. I figured he'd calm down after awhile, but he's still at it. He's not interested in food because he's so worried about that other betta he sees. Should I be worried? Or will he calm down after a few days? I don't want him to wear himself out everytime I turn on the light. He does do some flaring even when it's not on, but not nearly as much. I'd prefer to leave the light on though, if possible, because I don't want him too cold. Anyone have any ideas/suggestions on what I should do, if anything? Maybe I'm just being a worrywart, but I always am when I get a new fish. He's so beautiful, I don't want him to get stressed!

Also - just as a side note, now that he's out of that tiny cup and has room to fully flare and swim around I've noticed that 2 of his fins are pretty badly torn. Poor guy . Now I really feel like I rescued him! I was thinking of adding some salt to the water to help prevent fungus and the like, what are your thoughts on that? Or should I just watch and wait, or even add some other medication? Thanks guys!

 

[sandyd]

Congradulations on your new boy. I have 6 now myself, 5 boys and 1 new girl. All but 1 were rescues. All of mine flared at the back of their tanks for a few days, but then they stoped. The reflection makes them nuts, but i would not think it is hurting him. I would not add anything to his water as of yet. I would keep n eye on him and as long as you dont see any signs of illness, the best thing you can do for him is keep him in clean water. Do you treat his water with anything? Usually all that they need to repair themselves is good food and clean water. Give him some time to get used to his new house and keep an eye on him. Good luck and keep us posted. Sandy

 

[wuvmybetta]

I have the most gorgeous solid red male, and all he does is flare flare flare at his reflection when the lights on, & being in a hex ...it takes him awhile to take on all "6 bettas" He's been with us for about 8 months and has yet to stop I have to give the top of his tank a somewhat firm tap just to make him snap out of his rage and come eat , he's the only one like that,none of my others behave that way so.....you may just have a tough guy on your hands. I've just given up on the light above him and turn the light on the desk next to him on, it cuts down on reflection a lot

Good food,clean water and a pinch of salt should do him , if it worsens then worry but right now he's just in recovery from "the cup"