![]() For example, it may have just caught it on a decoration in its tank. However, a betta with damaged fins doesn’t necessarily mean it’s unhealthy. If a betta’s fins are in tatters or vastly missing between the rays (the bones in the fins), then a bacterial infection may be present.īettas, especially long-finned varieties, are notorious for experiencing torn fins because of how delicate they are. If a fish looks like it’s holding its fins close to the body or like they’re stuck together, it’s a sign of discomfort or illness. Healthy bettas, either short- or long-finned, have fins that seem to flow when they swim. However, some males display similar markings that can confuse owners as well. If you see vertical bars along a female fish, it indicates that they are ready to breed. However, if everything’s ideal, the fish should be back to its normal colour in a short amount of time. Fish may also show stress stripes and pale colours if a light is suddenly turned on (blinding them) or during water changes. It’s also important to note that most fish display stress stripes when introduced to a new home and should go away in a few days if everything is in order. Fortunately, by keeping track of other signs of health, you’ll be able to keep on top of its overall condition. With white or light-coloured bettas, it may be difficult to spot paling from stress. However, by looking at the eyes, you’ll be able to tell because you’ll see the horizontal stripe passing through them. In light-coloured bettas, you may not be able to see the stripes on the body. Stress stripes. Be aware that if you see horizontal stripes along a betta’s body (and passing through its eyes), they indicate stress.For example, a dark-coloured fish that is paling will often appear lighter around the head, across the belly, and along the underside. Even if the whole body may not seem dull, check the head, belly, and underside. They often will have a shine to their scales (iridescence). Healthy bettas showcase bright colouration. The frequency of bubble nests may also decrease as a betta ages. Whether they are healthy or unhealthy, some male (and even female) bettas make bubble nests all the time while others rarely do (or never will). Unfortunately, even bettas that are extremely sick and near death build bubble nests. Whether a betta does or does not build bubble nests does not indicate its current health. However, this is a myth – building bubble nests is purely instinctual. When fighting off parasites, an infected fish may jerk and rub against the walls of the tank and the decor within.Ī lot of people mistakenly believe that building bubble nests is a sign that a betta is happy and healthy. When a fish exhibits jerking motions (known as “flashing”), it may be going into shock or fighting off parasites. If a fish can’t stay afloat and is often resting on the bottom, it may be shocked, sick, injured, or having swim bladder issues. If a fish is floating, it may be shocked, bloated, or having swim bladder issues. They tend to favour swimming in the upper region of their setups. Healthy bettas are strong swimmers that typically swim fluidly. Hiding can also be a sign of injury or illness. A betta may constantly try to hide if it feels it is too exposed (lack of plants or decorations) or is being harassed by more aggressive tank mates (such as some varieties of tetras). ![]() Unfortunately, if a betta becomes too stressed, its immune system often becomes compromised. If you have a fish that constantly hides instead of freely swimming around, it may be very stressed. However, even if a large-finned fish is seen lounging often, a healthy fish will still be alert and eating well. This is because their fins often weigh them down and even make swimming difficult. Large-finned bettas may be less active than short-finned varieties. If your fish is seen sitting on the bottom of the tank a lot, it’s an indicator that something is wrong, especially if it is gasping as well. Inactive (lethargic) fish are likely cold, injured, or sick. ![]()
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