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Why is my betta gulping air after tank cleaning and fin rot recovery?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Betta | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 7 months old

Hi, my betta Yellowy recently began to come to the surface of his tank to gulp for air more than usual. Im not sure why. We recently cleaned the tank, so Im confused. Also, he is on the road to recovery from fin rot. Im worried. What could it be?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 22nd, 2018

Bettas are so-called labyrinth fish, they can breathe through their gills but also through an organ in their head called labyrinth. Therefore it would be normal that they have periods of breathing at the water surface.

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