My betta is bloated with a dark spot, and peas didn't help. What's wrong?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Male
My betta fish is bloated and has a dark patch on his left side where the scales are not laying flat. What I tried feeding him a pea, but it didn't help. Please help!
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on May 25th, 2018
Check water chemistry, quality and temperature. Use a home test kit or submit a water sample for testing to confirm an absence (0ppm) of ammonia and nitrites with a nitrate level of 20ppm or less. High ammonia levels may cause "burns" which may present as black spots on the scales. Most pet stores will test water for free or for a small fee. Perform a partial water change, no more than 30 percent of the total volume, to stabilize chemistry and maintain or improve water quality. Use only aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent further stress or shock. Check the water temperature as well. Bettas are tropical fish and do best between 78F and 80F. Low temps can affect digestion in fish causing constipation. Maintain water at 80F and fast for 3 days. Resume feed tiny bits of cooked and shelled green peas. Feed peas until defecation and swimming are normal. Feed a quality pelleted diet and fast him one day a week to promote regularity.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on March 21st, 2018
That, as you probably already suspected, could be due to an overinflated swimbladder, but as well enlarged abdominal organs could be possibly the cause of it (polycystic kidneys are fairly common as well). Unfortunately you already tried a first line approach (feeding peas for example) and did not work, so the next step,a part from water quality check, is to have your fish checked by your local veterinarian. A radiograph can easily confirm clinical suspicion and lead to appropriate treatment. 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. 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.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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