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My betta has a head growth. Is it a tumor? What can I do at home?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Betta | Male | unneutered | 1 year old

My male betta is about a year old, and unfortunately he has developed a growth on his head. What is this? If a tumour, is it malignant or benign? Anything I can do from home for him? He lives in a 5 gallon; heated, filtered, cycled tank. Thanks.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on January 31st, 2019

Thanks for reaching out about Cosmo. Dermal tumors are fairly common in betta fish. Some are benign, others malignant. A biopsy would be needed to determine. Malignant tumors tend to grow faster. If a tumor, nothing at home can be done, but a veterinarian would likely be able to remove. Good luck.

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