Velvet
Symptoms : Your Betta will appear to have a gold/brownish colored
dust all over their body and fins (use flashlight). They may also show distress
like bouncing off of plants, aquarium glass etc. Shortness of breath and clamped
fins are also indicators.
Info : This disease is
very contagious and highly fatal. It is very common cause of fry loss. The gills
are the first thing effected.
Treatments : Coppersafe*,
Maracide, Aquari-Sol or Acraflavin**. Follow the directions on the packages,
raising the temperature to 80°F-85°F if at all possible. If you cannot raise
the temperature due to the Betta being in a small bowl, do a full water change
and then treat. Move to a warm area of the house if possible.
Prevention : You can prevent
velvet by adding Aquarium Salt and Aquari-Sol to your tanks every water change.
*Copper can eventually lead to poisoning. Water should be gradually changed
after they have been
cured.
**Acraflavin can possibly sterilize fish.