Choosing The Better Betta

[hollyp0p]

I have been keeping an eye on my local lfs for a while now and their bettas, I've now picked the one that will be the best to buy my betta from, as the have the greatest colour range, and healthiest looking bettas (for the most part i think).
I have however seen one in there before that had some sort of lump on it's fin, same colour as the fin, like it had ballooned or something, and one another time that almost seemed like it had a knotted little bit of fin.
What are the things to look out for in unhealthy bettas...what do i need to avoid?
I've also heard something about curled fins...what does this mean and is it also something to avoid?

holly
x

 

[jennybugs]

I'd be looking for fins and tails that are intact and unripped, scales that sit flat on the body, no unusual lumps and bumps or marks etc. Sometimes its difficult to see the proper condition of bettas if they're kept in those tanks that are rows of tiny boxes. On the other hand if they flare at their neighbour you do get to see how good their finnage is/isn't.

 

[devon_charm]

An active betta is also a good place to start, however this is also hard at times because they get stressed out in silly little tanks or they are hinding from bad tank mates. Good colour is also a plus. A small amount of fin dammage is not to bad as it will grow out but when it borders excessive i would leave well alone unless you feel like doing a bit of betta rescue - can be very rewarding but it can also go the other way and be heartbreaking. Best of luck

 

[hollyp0p]

thanks, i may have found my new betta this afternoon, i have put him back, and will compare others before probably going for it next week...roll on betta thursday!

 

[Bubblenester]

I see the little "knotted" bit of fin a lot in veiltails, and I think it's just a form of curled fins- it won't hurt anything but their looks.

 

[hollyp0p]

I see the little "knotted" bit of fin a lot in veiltails, and I think it's just a form of curled fins- it won't hurt anything but their looks.

ah ok, that's good....they have some wonderful bettas there and it seems a shame to dismiss them on a little bit of a curled fin!

 

[Naughtygirlrlw]

Not sure if this works on veiltales but I know w/ crowntails, if their fins get a wee raggedy/curly, you can put them in some sunlight for about half an hour a day and it will help uncurl their fins.

 

[hollyp0p]

Not sure if this works on veiltales but I know w/ crowntails, if their fins get a wee raggedy/curly, you can put them in some sunlight for about half an hour a day and it will help uncurl their fins.

thanks for the tip (just incase!)