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Why is my betta fish at the bottom, not eating, and gasping for air?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Male | unneutered | 0 lbs

why is my betta fish (Steve) laying at the bottom of his bowl not wanting to eat anymore and only comes up for air !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Is he going to die ?!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on January 9th, 2018

Check the water temperature. It may be too cold. Bettas do best between 78F and 80F. Low temps can affect appetite and activity. You should also check the water chemistry. This can be done using a liquid home test kit or by submitting a sample for testing. Most pet stores or fish stores will do this for free or for a small fee. Ammonia and nitrites should read 0.25 ppm or less with nitrates at 40ppm or less. Water changes can be done to stabilize chemistry and maintain water quality. Use only aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock.

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    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 6th, 2018

    These are quite concerning but generic signs unfortunately. I would recommend a quite radical but logic approach in this case. Begin by submitting a water sample for quality testing. Most pet stores will do this for free or a nominal fee. Clinical examination should always include a water quality check, even if you have done so already. Water testing should be performed with a quality test kit, measuring NH4, NO2 and NO3. High ammonia levels, PH imbalances may be responsible for these signs. Oxygen concentration and quality of the filters should be determined as well. If water quality is good and there are no major imbalances, your fish should get examined to look for any sign of bacterial/fungal infection and eventually water should be treated. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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