I’ve had my betta for about 2.5 years but I don’t know what his age was when I adopted him. He has been slowing down a lot recently and only really comes to the surface to take a breath. He used to swim to the surface when I opened his tank to be fed, but now he just stays at the bottom. I know that the betta life span is short, but somehow it feels like he hasn’t been my bestie for long enough. Is this something to be concerned about? He eats about every other day, 3 BettaMin pellets, but used to eat at least 5 every day. Water parameters and image of the tank included (7 gal). I’m not ready to loose my sweet Prince Albert and I don’t know if I’m doing something wrong.
https://www.reddit.com/gallery/1rpozn1
Posted by Delicious_Studio_938
3 Comments
Heater and filter: yes
Temperature: 75 F
Tank: one year (upgraded to bigger tank)
Fish: 2.5 years
Water changes 1/3 of the tank every week
No tankmates
I feed him BettaMin and Bug Bites, about 2-3 pieces a day but a couple days out of the week he doesn’t eat
Males are typically sold at 6-12 months.
That would put him at a minimum of 3 which is unfortunately about all you can get with most betta.
Reduced appetite is a sign of aging.
Your water looks fine so it’s not stress. Betta can be picky or even get bored of food though, especially if they’ve been fed the same thing for the entire time he’s been in your care, try changing up the diet.
It could also be indicative of infection so look into a few that math his symptoms.
I’d say if less active and reduced appetite is the only symptom you may want to prepare yourself and start looking for any other signs of aging overall.
I agree with u/K_nowbody, it’s likely aging. His metabolism will slow down ands he won’t require as much food. I would try feeding frozen mysis shrimp or live black worms if you can get them. Feed less as he eats less. I would add some tall soft plants, Anacharis would be perfect because you can make loops out the long stems that he can lounge in at the top of the tank. Jungle Val can do the same. Keep up with the water changes and maybe add tannins. Indian almond leaves, alder cones, whatever you have or can get. Bettas hit harder when we lose them since they are such interactive fish. His tank is a perfect betta tank and you have taken great care of him. Hopefully he has more time and when it’s his time he goes peacefully in his sleep. For both of your sakes.