Why is my fish? (betta)?

Question

He keep trying to swim down to the bottom and he floats right back up to the top why is this?? please help!

Answer 1

It is probably a swim bladder problem.  Sometimes this is due to water quality problems etc. but usually it's just because they're blocked up somewhere inside and gassy!  

You can try defrosting a little frozen pea (and take off the shell bit) and give him some.  Maybe like 1/4 of a pea?  Try that, it'll help to flush out his system.  He might not eat it though, because Bettas are mostly carnivorous... But try to offer it anyway.  It works really well for my goldfish who have the same problem all the time.

Answer 2

Sounds like a swim bladder problem:

http://www.bettatalk.com/betta_diseases....

Answer 3

im sorry to say he is on his way out....:(

Answer 4

Swim bladder problem seems to be the major cause of you fish not being able to stay at the bottom and what causes the swim bladder problem can vary. Swim bladder may be infected by bacteria or your betta is constipated. I know, it sounds weird, but it does happen when you have your betta for a while. To tell if you betta has a swim bladder problem, look at the area between the belly and the tail. If this area is enlarged, then it mostly likely has swim bladder problem. If you betta has not bowel movement, then it is most likely to be caused by constipation. If constipation is the cause, limit your betta's diet or starve him for a couple of days. The pea idea suggested is worth a try. If the cause is bacteria, diagnosis based on process of elimination, try Maracyn-Two. Severe cases of constipation will also cause discoloration and eventual death if not treated. Bacteria infection will also cause death if unattended. On the bright side, a lot of times the fish will recover without your intervention. Monitor the fish closely to determine if its condition is getting worse or not.  

Answer 5

He is probably trying to eat leftover food from the bottom.  If you have air bubbles or a filter, turn it off for a while.  It may be too strong for him.  If not, he could just be tired.  Don't worry too much.