So we've had this fish for about a year, affectionately named firework, started off with all artificial plants and decorations. Have since planted with 3 Asian ferns, and 2 Amazon spears as well as some java moss and a few beta bulbs. This is all in a 6 gallon tank.
Recently a couple of weeks now he's always at the top of the tank and most of the time on his side. I did Google that it could be a swim bladder infection and to fast him for a few days which I did as well as more frequent water changes.
Doing a water test everything looks ok, PH (7.2-7.6) and alkalinity (120-180)are slightly high according to my test strips. Not sure how to get those down.
What can I do to bring the spunk back to his fish, I feel so bad he just floats all day. Started feeding him 2 pellets of new life spectrum beta bites the past couple mornings so he's not starving. But I'm at a loss with what else to do. Please help.
https://i.redd.it/b9tjwoj4za8e1.jpeg
Posted by dubgrumble
2 Comments
id suggest getting the api liquid test kit because we need to know ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels
and i think test strips aren’t always accurate
I’d start epson bath protocols in separate container and feed him some brine shimp. Load up with tannins too, if it’s bacterial, he’ll need a fully functioning immune system to get him on track.
I assume you’ve done the basic parameter checks and those are in line.