My Betta has scruffy curled fins!!

[joshwillis55]

I have just purchased a betta from my lfs yesterday and was wondering if my betta should look like this... it has brown spots on its head and has curled scruffy fins. It is very active and eats all the food i give it. I have fed it Bettamin tropical medley (flakes). My tank size is 3 gallons (12 Litres). I have a hob filter with a sponge in it to reduce the rate of intake, it is also heated. Should I be taking the betta back? Also what do you think of the betta (appearance)?

[Saphira101]

I'm not sure what it is, but it doesn't look serious..

[eemmais]

I think his fins look a little ruffed up...do you have a heater? I think usually things like this will be fine with clean, warm water.

[angus]

I *think* I was told the curled fins are from hard water. Not 100% though. As for the dark coloring on his head I don't know. I'm still learning, but I'm sure someone here will have more info for you!

[callistra]

His fins need some TLC but it's not bad. It's nothing that clean warm water shouldn't fix up.

Cycling: http://www.bettafish.com/showthread.php?t=47838

[joshwillis55]

Thanks for the quick feed back and yes i have a heater, im just hoping everything will get better and his colours will become more vibrant.. One more thing can anybody tell me an estimate of the age?

[callistra]

Bettas are generally 6 months to a year from pet stores.

[joshwillis55]

Thanks for the help i was getting a little worried ill put up another picture next week

[aokashi]

yes, betta fins curl due to hard water :) but it doesnt hurt them~
note water hardness is different from PH ^___^

[joshwillis55]

If i use rainwater will that be soft?