PLEASE help!

Frances

New Member
Messages
5
I got a Betta yesterday at Petco.

I bought a Betta Kit that included:
  • 2 gallon acrylic tank
  • Betta Food
  • Betta Water Conditioner
  • Filter
  • Small Plastic Plant

I put warm bottled water in the tank, started the filter, put some of the conditioner in, put the plant in, and lastly, put the fish in. He was fine.

However, today, I noticed he keeps floating to his left side. I also noticed his sides seem to be sticking out a bit. He's not eating too.

What do you think is wrong? I can post pictures of him or his tank if needed.

Here is him normally: http://oi47.tinypic.com/2gt99n8.jpg
Here is him on his side: http://oi48.tinypic.com/347w7e9.jpg
 
Last edited:

katie_

Wonder Reptiles
Messages
2,645
Location
Ontario
Unfortunately bettas aren't treated appropriately. Most stores take advantage of how hardy and resilient they are and provide them with less than adequate environments.
Bettas can be 'lazy' fish and are often sluggish because of poor water quality, cooled temps, etc. Also fish rarely ever eat the first few days you bring them home, but don't worry. They can go weeks without food no problem.
I know you just spent money on a tank, but I'd return it. Invest in 5.5 or 10 gallon tank. A filter and a heater is required. Hopefully Sam will see this and give you more info on bettas care (I'm more of a salt gal).
Can your bettas swim normally, or is it acting like it's belly is full of air and struggles to descend?
 

Frances

New Member
Messages
5
Thanks for the help.
is it acting like it's belly is full of air and struggles to descend?
Yes. :( He also struggles to stay straight. He will try to not go to his side, but he will give up and then float for awhile. It is pitiful seeing him doing it this.
 
Last edited:

Frances

New Member
Messages
5
He's fine now. He's eating and has no problem to stay straight for the most part. Also, he's descending.
 

DrCarrotTail

Moderator
Messages
3,590
Location
Ridgewood, NJ
Cool! Glad to hear he's doing better!

A sudden change in temperature or water quality can be hard on fish. Its a good idea to dump some of the "old" water out of the bag or container you brought him home in and put some of the "new" water into it and let him acclimate for a bit before putting him in the new tank. This way the new temperature/pH/ammonia/etc. levels aren't such a shock to the system. If he's in a bag you can also float it in the new tank so the temperature of the old and new water are the same when you make the transfer :)
 

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