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I just got a betta that has fin rot. He is in a 2.5 gallon until I can find my ten gallon. I'm worried about him surviving the nitrogen cycle as it is a new tank. I want to ask the pet store if they have an established aquarium so I can transfer their beneficial bacteria. I'm not certain that's a good idea. In a tank that small, I don't know when I should do a water change, especially since it's a brand new tank that hasn't ever been cycled. should I just wait and see? Do I have options?

I just got a betta that has fin rot. He is in a 2.5 gallon until I can find my ten gallon. I'm worried about him surviving the nitrogen cycle as it is a new tank. I want to ask the pet store if they have an established aquarium so I can transfer their beneficial bacteria. I'm not certain that's a good idea. In a tank that small, I don't know when I should do a water change, especially since it's a brand new tank that hasn't ever been cycled. should I just wait and see? Do I have options?

Updated On November 26th, 2017

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Male | unneutered

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

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Since it is a small tank, you can do 50% or greater water changes every few days or even daily if necessary. Be sure to use only aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent further stress or shock. Bettas do best between 78 F and 80 F. My personal preference for water conditioners are AmQuel Plus, NovAqua and StressCoat. Mild fin rot can be treated with plain aquarium salt (NOT table salt). Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt per gallon of water in a cup of tank water and gently pour it into the tank. Perform a 100% water change daily, treating the new water with salt at each change. Treat for 7-10 days, then perform a complete water change without salt.

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