When changing the water for betta fish, you can add an appropriate amount of salt, but it's not necessary to add salt every time you change the water. The main purpose of adding salt is to sterilize and disinfect, reducing the chance of fish getting sick. However, the concentration of salt needs to be strictly controlled, generally not exceeding 0.1%. If you decide to add salt, the salinity of the new water should also be kept within 0.1% each time you change the water.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Adding Salt
Adding salt has the following advantages:
Sterilization and disinfection: Salt can reduce the probability of fish getting sick.
Stress reduction: An appropriate amount of salt can help fish resist infections.
However, it's also okay not to add salt. As long as you manage the water temperature and water quality well and ensure that the feed you offer is clean and sterile, the fish can still grow healthily.
The Specific Methods of Adding Salt
Control the salt concentration: Each time you change the water, the salinity of the new water should be controlled within 0.1%.
Use iodide free salt: Since iodine can harm fish, iodide free salt should be used.
Add an appropriate amount of salt: You can put some sea salt for the fish after feeding. This can also have a certain sterilizing effect.
By reasonably controlling the amount and method of adding salt, you can effectively help betta fish stay healthy.