Causes and Treatment for Dragon Fish Scaling

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Understanding and Addressing the Issue of Betta Fish's "Bulging Scales"

Betta fish suffering from "bulging scales" appear as if they've suddenly gained weight, with their scales standing out prominently. This can be quite startling and even unsettling, often causing a shiver down the spine. The common reasons behind this phenomenon include:

1. Extreme Water Temperature Fluctuations

When the water temperature changes drastically due to a mismatch between new and old water during water changes, or due to seasonal shifts, bettas may struggle to adapt, leading to this condition. It often affects only a part of the fish's body. Other factors, such as rapid water changes causing sudden temperature shifts in the tank or water currents impacting the fish during changes, can also trigger this issue, especially if the fish's immune system is compromised.

Solution: If only a few scales are affected and there's no sign of redness, swelling, discharge, or bacterial infection, you can try increasing the water temperature. Raise it to 32 degrees Celsius and maintain it consistently. The fish might return to normal within a day. However, even after recovery, keep the temperature stable for at least a week. Avoid sudden drops in temperature; instead, lower it gradually. For every degree you lower, maintain that temperature for 23 days before continuing to cool down, ensuring the fish has time to adjust and prevent recurrence.

2. Internal Health Issues like Enteritis, Ascites, or Organ Infections

Poor water quality can also lead to "bulging scales" in bettas, often accompanied by internal bacterial infections. This is more severe than temperaturerelated issues. Old, unclean filter media, severe water pollution, or longterm nitrate levels can all contribute to internal organ infections and the scales' condition. Additionally, feeding the fish unclean or improperly prepared live food can cause internal damage, leading to conditions like enteritis or ascites, and resulting in "bulging scales."

When bettas have enteritis or ascites, they may exhibit symptoms like mild prolapse, red and swollen anal area, abdominal swelling, and a tendency to rest on the tank bottom. Severe cases can include sunken or bulging eyes, fading coloration, and the complete uplifting of all scales, with some even rotting or falling off, a truly distressing sight.

Solution: For internal bacterial infections, immediate water changes and水质 adjustments are necessary. If enteritis or ascites are present, antibiotics like gentamicin injections may be required.

In summary, if you notice your betta's "bulging scales," act promptly. Early stages can often be treated by raising water temperature, increasing oxygen levels, adding a small amount of salt, and regular water changes. This "old threestep" approach is usually effective. However, for severe cases, medical treatment may be necessary.

To prevent "bulging scales," always maintain good water quality, avoid sudden temperature changes, and keep your betta in a stable, comfortable environment.

This concludes our discussion on the causes and solutions for betta fish's "bulging scales." We hope this information has been helpful.

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