bump... I'd really appreciate any help

 

Hi Athra~

It's a bit difficult to tell from the photos, but if the lump is solid and firm, it's probably lymphocystis (a viral infection) or a tumor. Sadly, both are common sicknesses for bettas, and there's no cure for either one. Since he's still eating and acting normally, it's probably not a bacterial (more slimy, cloudy) or fungal (more cottony, hairy) infection. As long as the lump isn't affecting his quality of life, I'd suggest just keeping him in warm, clean water and enjoying your time together.

 

Thank you... not really the news I wanted, but I appreciate you taking a look. Unfortunately I only have my phone for a camera, so it's hard to get better photos... but it definitely doesn't look slimy, and I don't *think* it looks cottony... I'll just hope he can keep being his normal self for a while

 

Looks like a build up of pigmentation to me; hyperpigmentation. It occurs frequently on Betta's in the form of a cyst similar to Lympho, only it's not viral, it's usually hereditary. Much like Lympho or a tumor, there is no cure for these cysts and they may fall off in time but usually they end up pushing against organs internally as it grows inside and out. The fish can live anywhere from a couple weeks to over a year with it, it's all about how fast it grows and the genetics of the fish. Basically, just keep on making him happy and let him live out the rest of his life peacefully That's the best thing you can do for him.