While Betta fish have, of late, been becoming an increasingly popular pet around the globe, they remain a “fragile” species. Betta fish are very susceptible to parasites, fluctuations in living conditions (such as water temperature), and chemical levels in the water (such as ammonia and nitrates). In this article I have outlined the top 5 causes of Betta fish diseases and have included several resources I found helpful when dealing with sick Betta fish.

1) First of all, you want to look for any changes in your fish’s usual color scheme or vibrance. When either stressed or ill, your fish will usually dull in color. It is important to rule out stress factors that may be influencing your pet before jumping straight to the conclusion that your fish is sick. Stress factors can include: A direct, bright light on your fish, a too-small living environment (no, Betta fish do not actually live in tiny puddles in the wild, despite what you may have heard), constant loud noises that are close to your fish’s tank, etc. If stress factors are ruled out, you likely have a fish that has fallen ill.

2) Another common sign of illness is a constant gasping at the surface for air. This most often indicates a lack of oxygen in the water, often a result of dangerous levels of ammonia and/or nitrates built up in tank water. Usually a tank that is not cycled properly or has not been cleaned often enough will exhibit unhealthy toxin levels.

3) Another tell-tale sign of chemical imbalance in your tank are red-brown streaks around the gills of your Betta fish. Caused by build-up of nitrate, the flesh around the gills is the first to be deprived of both breathable oxygen and pigment. If this stage is reached, your fish is in very immediate danger and you should be quick to get it help.

4) One common Betta disease is that involving parasites. You will want to look out for white spots on the fins and/or body. These parasitic colonies can quickly overwhelm your pet’s immune system and inhibit it’s ability to breath oxygen. Several aquarium treatments exist for this condition.

5) The number one sign to look out for in diagnosing Betta fish diseases is lethargy. Extreme lethargy or laziness indicates, once again, a fish that is likely not getting enough oxygen. This can be caused by several factors including some chemical imbalances listed above.