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My betta fish is losing color. Is he sick or just getting old?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Male | unneutered | 5 years and 4 months old

why is my betta losing his color? This just resently started. His appetite has not changed. He seems to be normal other then the color change. He is a male vail tail only two years old. I bought him at Petco and he has never been sick or lose of color. I am scared that he might be sick. Thank you

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on May 13th, 2018

Bettas, and fish in general, may lose color due to old age. At 2 years of age, your fish is getting old. Their lifespan is between 3-5 years, average is closer to 3 though. Maintain pristine water quality. Test the water chemistry to confirm an absence (0 ppm) of ammonia and nitrites. Nitrates should read 20 ppm or less. Partial water changes can be done to stabilize chemistry and maintain quality. Use only aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. Bettas do best between 78 F and 80 F.

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