My betta tank has high alkalinity & hardness but normal pH. Is it bad?

Thanks for reaching out about your fish. Things depend on the difference between the existing water and the future tank. The wider the range, the more stress. Match temperature also, as that provides the most stress. Good luck.

Bettas are hardy andbquitebtolerant of a wide range of water conditions. The key is to avoid rapid swings in any parameters. Ideal chemistry for a betta would be a pH between 6.5 and 7, GH (aka dH) below 25, a KH above 4.5 (80ppm) ammonia and nitrites at 0 and nitrites at 20ppm or less. Water temp should range between 78 F and 80 F.

Recheck water chemistry to confirm 0 ppm ammonia and nitrites with nitrates at 20 ppm or less. A pH of 7 is fine and they can adjust to more acidic water as long as the change is gradual. Temperature should range between 78 F and 80 F. Plain aquarium salt (NOT table salt or epsom salt) can be used as a general tonic to reduce stress, improve gill function, treat minor infection and aid in recovery. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt per gallon of water in a cup or two of tank water and gently pour it into the tank. Perform partial water changes every couple of days to maintain water quality. Treat only the volume of water being replaced. Treat with aquarium salt for no more than 14 days then reassess the condition. An antibiotic, such as kanamycin or erythromycin, can be found in the aquarium section of the local Petco if the salt treatment doesn't help. Follow label directions carefully and remove the carbon filter insert during treatment if indicated.

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.

Drop the water temperature to 80 F. Bettas do best between 78 F and 80 F. The higher temp likely did not cause her death, but warm water holds less oxygen than cooler water. She may have been ill or old. She does appear bloated in the image. It may have been dropsy or other infection. Monitor water chemistry using a liquid test kit. They are more accurate than the strips. Tou can also submit a water sample for testing. The local Petco may do this for free or for a small fee. Aim for 0 ppm ammonia and nitrites with nitrates at 20 ppm or less. Try to keep the pH as close to 7 as possible. Bettas can tolerate acidic water, but changes should be gradual to allow time for acclimation.

Confirm proper water temp. Bettas do best between 78 F and 80 F. Low temps may lead to stress and illness. You can also try a small amount of plain aquarium salt (NOT table salt). Salt can aid healing and acts as a general tonic. Use 1/2-1 teaspoon per gallon of water. Driftwood or Indian Almond Leaf can also be used to condition water.

Thanks for reaching out about Aspen and including photos. This in not likely a problem with the fin, but a swim bladder disorder, therefore floating at the surface. Test and correct water quality for pH, ammonia, nitrites and nitrates. Swim bladder disorders are often associated with secondary infections, abdominal masses or other problems. Only a veterinarian can assist with a diagnostic/treatment plan, so scheduling a visit is recommended. Good luck.