Sick betta laying on bottom Please help

[stone88]

Hi, first time posting on the forum. I'm in desperate need of advice on how to treat my sick little betta. Hes lived with us for almost a year in a 10 gallon tank alone. Water parameters always good 0 ammonia 0 nitrite and nitrate 5.0 ppm ph 7.2/7.4 each time i tested his water which was usually every two weeks.

Around 3 weeks ago i noticed him flash once in the morning which i thought was concerning but after that occurrence he seemed to be ok eating great swimming around checking out his tank. Then around a two weeks ago i noticed that a few scales on the top of his spine seemed to be scratched or flaking on a small spot. Around that same time he started hiding more in the live plants at the bottom but was always coming up hungry for his dinner each night until about a week ago.

He ate good last monday 10/14 and tuesday 10/15 but hasnt had any food since then. Ive even tried taking food to him at the botttom, no interest at all. On 10/16 i noticed the flashing returning so i administered API general cure in his tank. Removed carbon and followed the directions. 4 days later did a 25% water change and added Stress coat. 10/21 I added 2.5 tablespoons of aquarium salt and today he looks worse than yesterday so i don't feel the General cure or the salt is helping him at all.

If anyone can please help with identifying what this is on him and what would be the best way to treat it. He's starving now and I feel like his time is limited. It's torture watching him at the bottom wasting away and nothing I've done has helped him. Any advice or help would be greatly appreciated. Photos attached...Thank you!

 

[johnmiller]

The betta's symptoms may indicate parasites, bacterial infections, or stress. Although he was eating previously, his current condition appears serious. Since API General Cure and aquarium salt haven't helped, focus on maintaining high water quality. Consider medicated food for potential internal parasites. Isolating the betta in a hospital tank can reduce stress and allow for closer monitoring. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult an aquatic veterinarian for specialized treatment. Prompt action is crucial for recovery.

 

[REDTAILPUPPIES]

im looking at the rocks, and they seem pretty dirty. perhaps the water quality? also, try some treatment for fungus or white spot, which might help.

 

[TwoTankAmin]

Since you do not list your country it is hard to help with meds as the availability is definitely country specfic.

I have had to treat wasting disease in the past and I have a very good med for it, but you have to be in the states to get it in its pure form. Some countries have it in a branded medication but where you are depends on if the case. The best part of this med is that it does not have to be eaten to work, it can beacbsorbed by the gish vie its "skin" or gills.

Look for Flubendazole. If your are in the States go here for it http://www.inkmkr.com/Fish/

And read this first http://www.inkmkr.com/Fish/FlubendazoleArticle.pdf

 

[fishorama]

I notice his eyes seem to be bulging as in "popeye", a bacteria infection. Kanamycin (Kanaplex, an antibiotic), if you can get it, is a good place to start.

Since this has been going on for a month now, it's getting late to help. I'm sorry we didn't see your post sooner. At 1 year old many fancy bettas are getting quite elderly, especially if he was fully adult when you got him. Old fish lose some immunity to infections & parasites they may have carried without much trouble. Without other fish in a year, I'd think it's not likely parasites unless he had a low level infection all along (he might have). I'm not suggesting you don't try to treat him, you should. But be prepared for a "lesser outcome", not eating for a month is not a good sign. I would also suggest changing water often & a lot.

What temperature do you keep him at? Bettas are best ~80F. You should slowly remove the salt by water changes. If it hasn't helped by now, it won't. Salt can be another stress factor for freshwater fish. I have used it only as a temporary med & rarely.