My Betta Isn't Doing Good.

[goldfish98]

I got the water tested, no ammonia, everything is perfect. I did pick up a small filter for him. 

 

[attibones]

Can you give specific numbers?

Ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, temp?

What sort of tests did you use?

 

[goldfish98]

Pet store tested it. 0 ammonia, PH 6, 0 nitrate, low nitrite. 

Got the filter in; the betta seems to be in a better mood now. 

 

[McCool]

The "low" nitrite is your problem. I would buy your own API liquid tests as soon as you can, that way you can get accurate readings.
I would just keep up with water changes every day until the 2.5 cycles or the ten does. Nitrite is incredibly toxic and frequent water changes are needed since you aren't able to test at home.

 

[goldfish98]

Low as in like .01

 

[McCool]

Low as in like .01

Any Nitrite at all is a problem. It should be 0. If I remember correctly it's more toxic than ammonia.

 

[sawickib]

Yea i believe their chemical bonds are even bigger than ammonia.

 

[goldfish98]

Oh, I thought nitrite was helpful in small amounts. I guess its Nitrate im thinking of? I always mix the two up. Anyway, the filter is in the tank and the betta came out this morning and is swimming around more. 

 

[McCool]

It's the nitrate that's okay to have, as long as it isn't overboard. Nitrite and ammonia need to always be at 0. So he seems better? Is he still eating?

 

[goldfish98]

I think I saw him peck at the food last night. 

 

[KieranBoyne]

As long as he isn't gettins worse, that's all good then I guess. How is he now?

 

[goldfish98]

Seems to be fine.

 

[KieranBoyne]

Great news.