Why is my betta fish turning white? Is it Ich? How can I help?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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  Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

  Licensed Veterinary Technician

  Published on March 30th, 2019

  It could be an infection. Maintain pristine water quality via filtration and regular partial water changes. Use only conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. Bettas do best between 78 F and 80 F. Look in the aquarium section of the local Petco for a broad spectrum treatment, such as Lifeguard (by Tetra) or Furan-2, to treat him. Follow label directions carefully and remove the carbon filter insert during treatment if indicated.

  

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  Answered By Todd Cecil

  Veterinarian

  Published on November 11th, 2018

  Thanks for reaching out about your Betta fish. White spots can be parasitic in origin, but also hyperactive mucous glands, the possible results of water quality concerns. Test water quality for pH, ammonia, nitrites and nitrates. Fish any problematic conditions. Trauma (bumping into a filter, rocks, etc.) can create scar tissue that sometimes appears white also. If the condition worsens, a fish veterinarian should be sought to examine your fish and prescribe a treatment. Good luck.

  

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  Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

  Licensed Veterinary Technician

  Published on October 9th, 2017

  Ich typically presents as tiny white dots all over the body. The white film may have been a fungal infection and the eyes may have been affected by a secondary bacterial infection. The Ich medication may have had an ingredient(s) that treated the infection even if it wasn't Ich. Maintain water quality and temperature (78F - 80F) and dissolve 1 teaspoon of plain aquarium salt (NOT table salt) per gallon of water into the tank. This will aid healing and can treat minor bacterial/fungal infections. Treat for 7-10 days then perform water changes to decrease salinity. Use only aged or conditioned water to prevent shock or stress.

  

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