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Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Male | unneutered | 10 months and 16 days old | 0.5 lbs
Im unable to tell if my betta fish has ich or a fungus. He's been acting strange, he darts around the hospital tank and only comes up for air, otherwise he is at the bottom. he has white spots that I've been treating for ich with paragaurd, but they are not going away. I did some reproach and I cannot tell if what he has is ich or a fungus. He is breathing rapidly and I just don't know what to do or what to treat him with. He has never had any health issues before and he is still eating normally
2 Answers

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on May 17th, 2018
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on September 14th, 2017
Check the water temp. It should be between 78 F and 80 F. Low temps can affect appetite and activity. It is also stressful which can caused clamped fins. Check the water chemistry as well. You can do this with a home test kit or by submitting a water sample to your local pet or fish store. Most will test water for free or for a nominal fee. Correct any imbalances using aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent further stress or shock. Ideal parameters are as follows: ammonia 0.25ppm or less, nitrites 1ppm or less, nitrates 40ppm or less.
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