Why Your Betta Isn’t Eating & How to Help
1. Environmental Adjustment Issues
- New fish in the tank: Bettas may need 2–3 days of quiet rest to adjust to transport or environmental changes (water quality, temperature). Avoid feeding during this time.
- Lighting & water flow: Bright lights or strong currents cause stress. Provide hiding spots (like plants or Indian almond leaves) and keep the environment calm.
2. Poor Water Quality or Temperature
- Deteriorated water: High ammonia/nitrite levels kill appetite. Test water regularly and do 1/3 water changes weekly (match temperature).
- Wrong temperature: Bettas need stable 75–82°F (24–28°C). Below 68°F (20°C), they stop eating. Use a heater.
3. Food-Related Problems
- Unappealing food: Feeding only pellets long-term causes boredom. Try live foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms) or switch brands.
- Spoiled food: Check for moisture or mold. Store food in a sealed, dark container.
4. Health Issues
- Bacterial infection/parasites: If paired with bloating, white feces, or body abnormalities, fast for 2 days and treat with metronidazole (5mg/L) or garlic extract.
- Stress-induced refusal: After sudden tank changes or scares, add Indian almond leaves to soothe them.
5. Other Factors
- Aggressive tank mates: Species like tiger barbs stress bettas. Keep bettas solo.
- Overfeeding: Bettas digest slowly. Feed 1–2 times daily max—overfeeding causes infections.
Emergency Steps
1. Fast for 1–2 days; check water temperature and quality.
2. Do a 1/3 water change; add aquarium salt (1g/L) to reduce stress.
3. Try live food to tempt them. If no improvement, check for diseases.
If refusal lasts >3 days with symptoms, consult a fish health expert.