sick betta

[catfishfan]

I have a betta who all of a sudden can't swim down. He'll try and he'll float back to the top. He looks normal, just having problems swimming. Also, while hes at the top, he kinda swims sideways

 

[rdd1952]

I'm certainly no expert but it sounds as if he has a bladder problem. I have a cory that is having a somewhat similar problem so I have been searching for answers. Check out this link:

http/petplace.netscape.com/Articles/artShow.asp?artID=2551

Hopefully, you will be able to get your beta to eat the pea. I haven't been successful with my cory. He stays on the bottom and all the other fish gobble the peas up before they get to the bottom.

 

[endilliteracy]

My old betta used to do something like that. I think my water flow was too powerful and it gave him problems swimming. After I fixed the water flow in my tank, he could swim normal. I don't know. It could be swim bladder.

 

[Sorrell]

That's swimbladder. Some bettas pull through it, some don't, but they can live with it if you are willing to make accomadations for them.

You'll need a tank that has silk plants with broad leaves that will reach the surface where he can rest. I also like to lower the water level for them so it is easier to eat. Also make sure to keep his water extra clean and with a little salt. Bettas with SBD tend to get finrot too.

I had a betta with SBD who lived floating at the top for over six months, but he continued to eat and swim at the surface untill his last couple days. That will be your judgement as far as quality of life with your fish. If he quits eating or starts to heave, you may want to consider alternatives