What is Dropsy in fish?
Dropsy in the Betta fish – or in any other fish for that matter – is not really a disease in itself but a symptom of a specific bacterial infection. The main symptom of dropsy in fish is a swollen or bloated condition with the scales standing out like in pine cones. This is a serious infection and unless appropriate treatment is administered, the afflicted Betta may well die. What causes Dropsy in Bettas and other fish? The bacteria (mostly gram negative) lodge itself in the tissues of the fish body thus affecting the kidneys and causing the retention of fluid and water in the body. It is this fluid retention that causes the Betta to bloat. Another cause of bacterial infection and Dropsy is the condition of the water in your aquarium. It has the same effects on the kidney and subsequent swelling of the body. Care & Treatment of Dropsy in Bettas & other fish Dropsy is a very serious fish disease symptom and must be treated with urgency. This and other diseases that afflict fresh or salt
