Big belly and scales ripped open

Question
Hi (10 Jan. 2006), I've had my fish (and bowl) set up for almost a year and a half.  It's about 3/4 of a gallon.  He is the only fish living in the bowl.

About 4 weeks ago, I noticed his belly was becoming bigger, but I was not feeding him more than usual.  About 6 days ago I noticed that his belly was even bigger and this morning, the scales on the right side of his belly have split open and there is a cream colored 'thing' sticking out and two brown strands.

I hope you can help me. Thanks.  

Answer
Hi Jacquie;

The bowl too small for any other fish, so I'm assuming your fish is a betta?

It could be an infection or a tumor. The only thing I can recommend is to try antibiotics. There is one readily available called "Maracyn 2". It absorbs into the fish where the infection is. Also get some "BettaFix" made by Aquarium Pharmaceuticals. The maracyn 2 will treat infection and the bettafix will help the damaged tissue heal on the open wound.

Here is a web page about dosage of medicines and treating bettas in small containers;

http://www.healthybetta.com/easymeds.html

I hope he feels better soon......

At Your Service;
Chris Robbins