It Might Be Resting or Sleeping
Betta fish are naturally very lively fish, but just like us, they need a period of rest to allow themselves to recharge. Some fish hover in the water while they sleep, so an unmoving betta may simply be resting or sleeping.
Is it normal for a betta fish to stay in one spot?
It’s possible it’s the quietest spot in the tank. If there is too strong a water current it can be tough for them to swim against it, and they’ll stick to spots where the current is less or nonexistent.
Why is my betta just sitting there?
Water is too cold.
They are tropical and thrive in waters with a temperature of 75 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit (24 to 28 in Celcius). If the water is too cold, your betta’s metabolism will gradually slow down. This will cause the fish to become lethargic and spend a lot of time at the bottom of your aquarium.
How do I make my betta fish active?
You can do the same thing with a tunnel on the bottom of the aquarium. Or float a ping pong ball or other small plastic ball at the surface and see if your betta will push it around! There are lots of other fun activities you can engage in with your betta by using your imagination or doing a little online research.
Why is my betta fish not moving but still alive? – Related Questions
Why is my betta fish staying in one spot at the top of the tank?
The water surface has more dissolved oxygen than the bottom. Therefore, your Betta fish may be swimming to the top of the tank to get some air because there isn’t enough oxygen in the water. The average Betta fish has a labyrinth organ that sets it apart from most fish.
Why is my betta staying in one spot at the top of the tank?
The main reason behind Betta fish continuously hanging out at the top of the tank is lack of oxygen. Other reasons also include uncomfortable water temperature, high nitrate levels, and an overcrowded tank. Betta fish usually hang out in the middle of the tank, just swimming at other parts occasionally.
Why does my fish stay in one corner?
Stress can make your fish stay in one corner of the tank. The stress may be from incompatible tank mates, poor feeding, lightning, and tank conditions. Another reason could be that the tank is overstocked.
How can you tell if a betta fish is stressed?
If your fish is swimming frantically without going anywhere, crashing at the bottom of his tank, rubbing himself on gravel or rocks, or locking his fins at his side, he may be experiencing significant stress.
What does an unhealthy betta look like?
The appearance of yellow-ish dust covering the betta; lethargy; loss of color; loss of appetite; clamped fins (held close to the body).
How do I destress my betta fish?
Ways to Reduce Fish Stress
- Change water frequently to keep nitrate and ammonia levels low.
- Check water temperature for consistency regularly to prevent stressful fluctuations.
- Provide an optimal filtration system like the Fluval Underwater Filter that captures debris and bacteria while ensuring proper oxygenation.
How do I make my betta happy again?
Keep the water clean.
Betta are happiest when they have clean water, so be sure to do at least a 50% water change every week for a 2.5+ gallon tank. Anything under 2.5 gallons without a filter should get 100% water changes at least every other day.
What does a depressed betta fish look like?
Clamped Fins and Tail
This is probably one of the easiest to spot, even in a veiltail betta. When fish are not feeling good, they will keep their dorsal, ventral, and anal fins close to their body. In the case of bettas, their tails also won’t flare out as much when they are swimming.
Can I touch my betta fish?
Betta fish should rarely, if ever, be petted. It’s not good to pet them, as it may remove their natural slime coating, making them prone to certain diseases. Also, never touch them with dirty hands, as bacteria can easily be transmitted through direct contact.
Do Bettas like the dark?
Bettas like light so that they know when to wake up and prefer a darker environment to sleep in. You may have an aquarium light on your tank and if so, it is probably best for you to turn this on when you wake up in the morning and turn it off just before bedtime.
Do Bettas need LED light?
No. In fact, it’s not healthy to do this. Bettas, like most other animals, need light and darkness to stay physically and mentally well.
How many years does a betta fish live?
2 – 5 years
Siamese fighting fish / Lifespan (In captivity)
How often should Bettas be fed?
It is recommended to feed your betta fish two to four pellets, once or twice per day. Pellets expand when placed in water and are very filling for your betta fish. Freeze-dried or fresh food can be substituted for their pellet feeding 1 to 2 days per week.
How long can a betta last without food?
Betta fish can survive up to 10 days without food, however, this is not recommended! It is possible they may even survive a few more days than this, however, this is merely surviving and you are actually slowly starving your betta fish which can cause them to die easily.
How many balls should I feed my betta fish?
A betta’s stomach is roughly the size of its eyeball and should not be fed a meal larger than that at once. This translates to about three pellets or brine shrimp per feeding. If you feed gel food, it should be about the same amount. A betta can be fed this amount once or twice a day.