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Why is my betta fish laying on bottom and biting tail after cleaning?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Betta | Male

Hello I have a beta fish I cleaned his tank the day before yesterday and conditioned the water then put him back in yesterday I noticed he was laying in the bottom on the tank he would swim around a little bit but then swim back to lay on he bottom.The. Yesterday I noticed it looks like he is eating/biting his tail

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on March 29th, 2019

Thanks for reaching out about Stanley. First, test the water quality for pH, ammonia, nitrites and nitrates. Correct any problems. Laying on the bottom might be an indication of a swim bladder infection/fluid. These are commonly bacterial and systemic antibiotics required. A veterinary visit is needed to prescribe medications. Antibiotics added to the water are rarely absorbed, and are generally for skin infections, vis contact. Good luck.

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