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My baby beta fish has not been able to swim up lately, he stays at the very bottom of the tank and barely moves. He has trouble swimming and I found him almost floating vertically. Please help.

My baby beta fish has not been able to swim up lately, he stays at the very bottom of the tank and barely moves. He has trouble swimming and I found him almost floating vertically. Please help.

Updated On April 28th, 2018

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Male | unneutered

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

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Check the water chemistry and temperature. Elevated ammonia or nitrites can be toxic and low temps can affect activity. Bettas do best between 78 F and 80 F. You can use a home test kit or submit a water sample for testing. Most pet stores will do this for free or for a small fee. Perform partial water changes, if indicated, to stabilize chemistry and maintain or improve water quality. Aim for 0 ppm ammonia and nitrites with nitrates at 40 ppm or less. If possible, turn don the filter flow so the little guy isn't pushed around by a strong current. Bettas prefer slow moving water. Lower the water level to make it easier for him to surface. Bettas are air breathers. Feed Micro Pellets or crush regular pellets so he can eat them. You can moisten pellets with a bit of garlic juice to stimulate his appetite.

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