Troubleshooter

Why is my betta not moving?

Quick answerA still betta is usually one of: cold water (most common), end-of-life decline, swim bladder disease, or dim lighting. Bettas need 78-82°F warm water - cold = stillness.

Possible causes (5)

1. Cold water (heater failure)

Bettas need 78-82°F. Below 75°F they go dormant. Test temperature; if cold, replace heater + slowly warm.

2. Resting / sleeping

Bettas rest in plants, caves, or surface near anubias leaves. Normal at lights-off and during the day in some bettas.

3. Swim bladder disease

Bettas have higher swim bladder issues than most fish. Fast 2-3 days, then offer deshelled peas.

4. End-of-life

Bettas have 3-5 year lifespans. Older bettas slow down + eat less. Keep water pristine + temperature stable.

5. Tank too large or strong flow

Bettas prefer slow-flow tanks 5-10g. Strong currents from filters tire them out.

What to do next

Test water first - many "behavior" issues are actually water-quality problems. Use the water parameter checker to score your test results, the disease symptom matcher if you observe physical signs, or the general diagnoser to narrow further. Browse the full disease database if illness is suspected.

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