My betta fish died with a white film and gill tumor. What caused it?

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.

Thanks for reaching out about Milo and including photos. Ich does not occur spontaneously, so if no new additions of live fish, plants or snails, then it is unlikely to be this parasite. Do you test water quality of pH, ammonia, nitrites and nitrates? Review diet as many of the nutrients in fish foods degrade in months, so fresh food ins required every 2-3 months. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Good luck.

White formations on Bettas and other fish are typically an indicator of the condition Ich. You should be able to purchase medication that is placed within the water that may help with this condition. Here is a link to a page all about the condition and how best to manage the situation. https://pethelpful.com/fish-aquariums/how-to-cure-betta-fish-ich Hope this helps!

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.

Maintain pristine water quality via filtration and regular partial water changes. Use only conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent further stress or shock. Bettas do best between 78 F and 80 F. You can try an "all in one" product, such as Lifeguard by Tetra, to treat the condition. Find it in the local Petco or online. Follow label directions carefully and remove the carbon filter insert if indicated. https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/tetra-lifeguard-all-in-one-freshwater-aquarium-treatment

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.

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.