Does your betta fish seem off? You may have seen your bright friend lying at the tank’s bottom. It’s even worse that it’s not eating. This can be very scary for people who own fish. Bettas usually behave in a way that makes you think something is wrong.
People love betta fish as pets because they are colorful and have big fins. In the wild, they live in Asia in warm, shallow water. Betta fish kept as pets need the same things to stay healthy. It’s usually easy to tell when a betta fish is sick.
There are many things that could stop a bettafrom swimming and eating. It could be the tank, the water, or a sickness. You need to solve the case since you own the fish. Find out what’s wrong with your snake friend to make it feel better. This can happen for a number of reasons, and we’ll show you how to fix them.
In what way is my Betta Fish sick?
When they don’t feel well, bettas often lie at the bottom of the tank. Several things can cause this to happen. Poor water quality, stress, or illness are some of the most common reasons. Betta fish live in warm, clean water and need it to do well.
How to Tell If Your Betta Is Sick
If a betta fish is sick, it might do these things:
- Is not eating
- Being at the bottom of the tank
- Not as active as usual
- Faded colors
- Clamped fins
These symptoms can point to various health issues. It’s important to watch your fish closely and act fast if you see these signs.
Water Quality Issues
Bad water is a top reason for sick bettas. Ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates can build up in the tank. These chemicals are harmful to fish. Test your water often to make sure it’s safe for your betta.
Here’s a table of ideal water parameters for bettas:
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 78-80°F |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 |
| Ammonia | 0 ppm |
| Nitrites | 0 ppm |
| Nitrates | <20 ppm |
What Can You Do?
If your betta is lying at the bottom of the tank and not eating, try these steps:
- Test the water right away.
- Do a partial water change if needed.
- Make sure the tank is warm enough.
- Try offering your betta its favorite foods.
- Look for signs of disease or infection.
If your fish doesn’t get better soon, ask a vet or fish expert for help. Quick action can often save a sick betta’s life. Does your betta fish seem off? You may have seen your bright friend lying at the tank’s bottom. It’s even worse that it’s not eating. This can be very scary for people who own fish. Bettas usually behave in a way that makes you think something is wrong.
Photo by Thang Cao
