Betta fish are one of the most popular freshwater aquarium fish around. One common question that I often hear from people who are interested in betta fish is betta fish lays at bottom of the tank. I have listed the reasons below.
Why does Betta fish lay at bottom of the tank
1. The water temperature
There could be a number of reasons why your betta fish is laying at the bottom of its tank. One reason might be that the water is too cold for the fish. Bettas prefer warmer water, so if the temperature in your tank is below 70 degrees Fahrenheit, your fish may be uncomfortable and resting at the bottom in order to conserve body heat. If your tank is not well insulated and the water temperature frequently drops below 70 degrees, then it might be best to invest in a heater so as to avoid this problem from occurring again.
2. The water is too dirty
One of the most common reasons why a betta fish will lay at the bottom of its tank is because the water is too dirty. If the tank is not properly cleaned, the water will become murky and filled with algae. This can be extremely harmful to a betta fish and may lead to illness or even death.
If you have a betta fish and have been noticing that it has been lying at the bottom of its tank, be sure to clean the tank immediately. This means scrubbing down the inside of the tank with a brush, changing the water, and cleaning out any algae or dirt that may have built up.
3. The pH level is not correct
Another common reason why a betta fish may lay at the bottom of its tank is that the pH level is not suitable for betta fish. Bettas prefer water that has a pH level of 6.5 or below, while most tanks have a pH level of 7 or higher. If the pH level in your tank is not within the suitable range for betta fish, your betta may become very sick and die.
If you think that the pH level in your tank is too high or too low, we recommend doing some research on how to alter it. Different techniques can be used to alter the pH level in a fish tank so it will be suitable for your betta fish. However, it is always best to consult an expert before attempting to do this yourself.
4. The tank is too crowded
If your tank is too crowded, your betta fish may become stressed and lay at the bottom of the tank. Bettas are solitary fish and do not enjoy being around other fish. If there are too many fish in the tank, or if they are bigger than your betta, it can cause stress to your betta.
When caring for a single betta fish in a tank, remember to keep the number of other fish in mind. Place no more than three small-sized fish with your betta so their presence will not be too overwhelming.
5. Betta is too tired
If your betta has been swimming a lot during the day that can cause him to get tired at night and he will head for the bottom of the tank to rest.
Bettas are nocturnal fish, meaning they sleep during the day and become active at night. If you notice that your betta has been more tired than usual, try giving him more time to rest at night so he may be able to get his energy back.
6. The water is too salty
Betta fish like fresh, clean water and if the water is too salty, they will lay at the bottom of the tank. This is because salt makes their skin dry and irritated.
7. There is not enough oxygen in the water
If there is not enough oxygen in the water, the betta fish will also lay at the bottom of the tank. This is because they need plenty of oxygen to breathe and if there isn't enough, it can be very dangerous for them.
Bettas need plenty of oxygen in the water to thrive and will often sit at the bottom of the tank if there is not enough oxygen.
8. The light is disturbing the fish
Bettas like a natural day/night cycle but do not like direct lighting that disturbs their sleep patterns. If the lights are causing problems, try using an aquarium hood or turning off the light during the night.
9. The fish is stressed
Bettas can become stressed for a variety of reasons, including changes in their environment or when they are sick. If the fish is stressed, it will often sit at the bottom of the tank.
10. sick or injured
One of the possible reasons that your betta fish is lying at the bottom of the tank is that it is sick or injured. If your betta has been lethargic, not eating, has lost weight, or has white patches on its body, it may be suffering from a bacterial infection and should be taken to a veterinarian.
Similarly, if your betta has a wound, it may be in pain and lie at the bottom of the tank to avoid movement. If you suspect that your betta is sick or injured, please take it to a veterinarian for treatment.
Conclusion
your betta will sometimes lay at the bottom of his tank simply because he's bored! If you notice him lying on the bottom of his tank with nothing to do, try placing some colorful objects in the aquarium to provide him with entertainment. You can also try feeding him more often to keep him active.