Floats on side at top

[westernstar11]

I changed the water in my split beta tank today. (The water temp was the same and I added a drop of conditioner) Both were fine for hours afterwards, now one of them is floating on his side at the top. He tries to swim but he keeps going on his side. He really seems to be suffering and I feel bad.

What is wrong with him and what can I do?

 

[semper fi]

could be swim bladder. if they cannot keep them selves upright that is usually a sign of it. has it been beat on by the other betta?

 

[westernstar11]

Well, I fully expected him to be dead when I woke up this morning... But the darkness seems to have cured him, he's fine?!?!?!

I have no idea...

I keep the two seperate, even when I clean the mini tank.

He was floating on his side up at the top (half of his body was out of the water) and constantly gasping for air. When he tried to swim, it was a very jerky motion. I felt so bad but he seems to be fine now.

Maybe the water temp was a little too different?

 

[Cian McLiam]

It sounds like bloat or swimbladder problems, what temp is he usually at? Bettas arent known for being veggie lovers but de-capsulated peas are good for swim bladder and digestive problems. Do you leave the water to stand for a few hours before adding it? Bettas kept in small containers are very vulnerable to changing water temps and quality, fluctuations can damage their immune system. I find keeping them around 27-30C keeps them fit and active.

Ken

 

[Inchworm]

Hi westernstar11 and welcome to the forum.

I'm glad to learn that your betta has recovered!

I'll be looking forward to seeing you posts in the betta and gourami section. There are a lot of betta lovers here and we enjoy talking about them.

Let's hear some more about yours!