Why Is There A Film On The Surface Of The Water In My Bettas Tanks

[Durbkat]

Everyday there is a film on the surface of the water in my 1g and my 1/2g and I have to take my net and stir the surface of the water up abit to get it to go away. What is this and what can I do to get rid of it?

 

[thelastbetta]

It's the protein build up.

 

[wuvmybetta]

It's the protein build up.

Yes. And a small airstone or filter should take care of it.

Or a change in location. It's crazy because I have certain bettas who get that on occasion, and others who don't. They're all on the same schedule though. Hmmm.

 

[Mr.September15]

Whats an airstone?

 

[thelastbetta]

An airstone is used to create water aeration.

 

[Mr.September15]

An airstone is used to create water aeration.

Is that bubbles?

 

[thelastbetta]

Yup, bubbles.

 

[Durbkat]

Thanks guys. Sorry for taking so long because I did that thing where you enable email notifications of replys but I never got an e-mail to let me know you guys replied. So thanks once again. Also will this protein build up keep the bettas from getting air from the surface or will it be ok as long as I take a net and stir the water up every now and then?

 

[thelastbetta]

They can still get to the surface. At least mine can. As long as it's not too thick. If you just stirr it everyone and a while it'll go away for an hour or so usually.

 

[black angel]

I think as well if your fingers get in the water you leave an oil slick on the surface.