What does it mean when the betta fish have his gills [or something] are poofed out...does that mean hes mad?

Question

What does it mean when the betta fish have his gills [or something] are poofed out...does that mean hes mad?

Answer 1

It's what beta's do when they're territorial. do you have other fish in the tank? It's sort of like a striking or fighting stance.

Answer 2

Bettas flare out their gills and fins as an aggressive manner, or to impress a female betta. It's kind of equivilent to a man flexing>.<

Answer 3

it is flaring like they r getting ready to fight or when they r mating

Answer 4

It's called flaring and they do it to show off when they see another fish.  It's very pretty but also stressful for the fish if they keep doing it.  If you have him alone then he must be getting a reflection from somewhere.

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Answer 5

same as above