Betta Bulge

Question
Hi there. I have a beta who is about 1 year old, he is in a 10 gallon heated, filtered tank. I recently noticed that he is much less active then when I first had him and then today I saw a very large bulge on the side of this stomach. It is not up under his gills, it is further back. Almost like what a snake looks like when it eats something that is too big. When I got close to him to inspect I also noticed tiny tiny bugs, it looks like that are patrolling the sides of the tank and the rocks. There are tons. They are almost microscopic, and they appear to be white/colorless? I change the water and rinse the rocks once a month and then change 1/3 of the water every 2 weeks. Should I do it more?

We also got an algae eater fish, because we had an algae problem (which disappeared by the way) but Ferguson ate that fish about 2 days after he was placed in there. The fish completely disappeared no, remnants, fins, scales, anything. I even took the filtration system apart because I was sure there had to be something left of him somewhere, but no luck. That was about a month ago ... could any of this be related? Do I need to take him to a pet store and have someone look at his belly? I just feel bad for him - he looks uncomfortable - not swimming at all, just up to the surface once a day for his food.

Answer
Hi Karen:  I would take him to have him looked at. It is difficult for me to diagnose him because there are too many variables at work here.  The bugs are probably what we call Planaria and are harmless but again they are present with what could be described as a parasitic wound.... There is also a disease called dropsy that is kind of like what you have described.... so if possible I would let someone look at him and make a diagnosis based on observation... let me know if you need additional help... ps... your algae eater may yet still be in your tank... they are very adept at hiding.