Why is my Betta fish lethargic, clamped, and pale after tank cleaning?

Question

I just cleaned my Betta fishes tank I put the same stuff as usual and a couple hours later he started just sitting at the bottom of the tank with his fins clamped together and now he's just sitting at the top and like vibrating his fins then clamping them shut again and I've noticed he lost a lot of his color. Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Male | unneutered

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

Check the water quality in the tank/bowl. Do another water changed with "stale" water. This is water that has been left out for at least 24 hours which allows chlorine to dissipate. You may still need to add chemicals to deactivate chloramines which are used in municipal systems. Use a home test kit to test for ammonia, nitrates and nitrites or submit a sample for testing. Most pet stores or aquarists will do this for free or for a nominal fee. Check the water temp as well. Bettas do best in water that is 78 F to 80 F. It should not drop below 74 F. Use a small tank heater if necessary. A bit of aquarium salt should also be added to the tank at every change. Velvet is parasitical infection that may account for the symptoms you are seeing. You can treat/prevent it by adding aquarium salt. Pick up some BettaFix at your local pet store as well. Use according to bottle directions.

Why is my Betta fish lethargic, clamped, and pale after tank cleaning?

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