Why does my betta have black spots? Is it normal or a health issue?

Some platys will have black spots on their bodies. This is normal and no cause for concern. Monitor for lethargy, decreased appetite, rubbing on objects or "flashing" (darting about the tank). Check water quality and chemistry. Make sure ammonia and nitrite levels are at 0 ppm (parts per million). Nitrates should be less than 40 ppm.

Check water chemistry, quality and temperature. Use a home test kit or submit a water sample for testing to confirm an absence (0ppm) of ammonia and nitrites with a nitrate level of 20ppm or less. High ammonia levels may cause "burns" which may present as black spots on the scales. Most pet stores will test water for free or for a small fee. Perform a partial water change, no more than 30 percent of the total volume, to stabilize chemistry and maintain or improve water quality. Use only aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent further stress or shock. Check the water temperature as well. Bettas are tropical fish and do best between 78F and 80F. Low temps can affect digestion in fish causing constipation. Maintain water at 80F and fast for 3 days. Resume feed tiny bits of cooked and shelled green peas. Feed peas until defecation and swimming are normal. Feed a quality pelleted diet and fast him one day a week to promote regularity.

Hi, and thanks for your question. You can actually attach the pics to the question if you like. This description of the lesions could be compatible with a parasite or possibly a bacterial infection. Begin by submitting a water sample for quality testing. Most pet stores will do this for free or a nominal fee. Clinical examination should always include a water quality check, even if you have done so already. Water testing should be performed with a quality test kit, measuring NH4, NO2 and NO3. High ammonia levels, PH imbalances may be responsible for these signs. Oxygen concentration and quality of the filters should be determined as well. If water quality is good and there are no major imbalances, your fish should get examined to look for any sign of bacterial/fungal/parasitic infection and eventually water should be treated. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Thanks for reaching out about Kai and including photos. This could be a solitary Ich lesion (which is unusual, as there are usually multiple) or a hyper-active mucous gland. Check water parameters for pH, ammonia, nitrites and nitrates, correcting any problems. If more lesions appear, a veterinary visit can help with a diagnosis through a microscopic examination of a skin scrape, and therefore prescribe the appropriate treatment. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about M.S. First of all, check water quality for pH, ammonia, nitrites and nitrates, correct any problems. Poor water quality can lead to dermal changes/irritations that can results in tattered scales or fins, and other dermal lesions. If the lesions progress, a veterinary visit is needed to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Any of the over-the-counter medications to add to the water, rarely improve conditions but will more likely be a detriment to water conditions. Good luck.

It's possible Bartholomew has a skin or fungal infection that is affecting him. Testing your water may help if there is an environmental cause, as well as treating for fungal infections. Most pet stores will carry water treatments for the most common causes of fungal growths on fish.

Thanks for reaching out about Spiderman and including photos. Have the water tested again, including ammonia. Betta pellets should be rotated out every 3 months as vitamins degrade. Lack of pigmentation in the diet can also lead to paling of color. Basic water quality is only minimal, but advanced testing might be needed. Good luck.