[AKManga]

In my Beta's tank at the VERY top of the water, there is a slight glossy film on it (like oil) and small brownish particles floating on the surface. I changed his water just a few days ago. Does anyone know what's wrong?

 

[MattsBettas]

What size is the tank? Is there a filter or airstone? How often do you do water changes?

The oil on top is just protein, but proper husbandry often prevents it.

 

[LizbethDawn]

I have it too in the filtered 5 gallon and I do a 50% once a week in that tank. I never really thought anything of it.

 

[AKManga]

I have a 5 gallon tank. I think I have an airstone, it's a pump with a grainy end that expels air into the tank. I do full water changes at the beginning of the month and half water changes in the middle of the month.

 

[MattsBettas]

So... No filter?

The reason is because you aren't doing enough water changes... I change water on my fives fifty percent twice a week.

 

[AKManga]

Are you sure? I've had him for 3 months now, this is just starting. I'll try and change his water more often if that's so.

 

[FlipShady 23]

It's due to the lack of water agitation (movement) at the top of the water's surface. Since the water on top does not move, it just builds up protein. I haven't seen it harm my betta in anyway but I plan on moving him to a 10 gallon with an Aquaclear 20 HOB filter, possibly baffled.

I perform a 50% water change in my 5 gallon betta tank once a week. Even though I have an Aqueon Quietflow Internal filter and do weekly water changes, it is completely submerged in the tank. I got him that filter b/c it provides very little current which betta loves. Hopefully that answers your question.