Swim Bladder Disease Betta: How To Identify Symptoms, Treat It, Get a Healthy Betta

Published March 25, 2024 | By Matt

Swim bladder disease (SBD) is one of the most common health concerns betta fish owners face. When a betta starts floating on its side or struggles to stay submerged, it can be alarming. The good news is that SBD is often treatable and preventable with the right care. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about swim bladder disease: what it is, what causes it, how to treat it, and how to prevent it in the future.

🧠 What Is Swim Bladder Disease (SBD)?

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Swim bladder disease isn’t technically a disease—it’s a condition that results from problems with a betta fish’s swim bladder, a gas-filled organ that controls buoyancy. When the swim bladder is impaired, the fish loses its ability to maintain balance in the water. SBD can make your betta float uncontrollably, sink to the bottom, or swim sideways.

Importantly, SBD is not contagious. It’s usually a symptom of an underlying issue such as overfeeding, poor water quality, or infection.

🚨 Symptoms of Swim Bladder Disease in Bettas

Floating sideways or upside down
Sinking to the bottom of the tank
Struggling to swim upright
Erratic or spiraling swimming behavior
Swollen abdomen
Loss of appetite
Lethargy or staying in one spot

Note: A swollen belly from SBD can sometimes be mistaken for dropsy, which involves raised scales and is usually more serious.

🔍 Causes of Swim Bladder Disease

Overfeeding & Constipation: Excess food leads to digestive pressure on the swim bladder.
Poor Water Quality or Temperature Swings: Sudden changes or unclean water can stress your fish.
Bacterial Infection: Can inflame or damage the swim bladder.
Physical Injury: Rough handling or jumping out of the tank.
Genetic Factors: Some bettas, especially fancy breeds, are more prone to swim bladder issues.

🛠️ How to Treat Swim Bladder Disease

1. Fast Your Betta (1–3 Days) Give your betta a break from food to let its digestive system rest and clear.

2. Adjust the Diet If constipation is suspected, offer a small piece of cooked, deshelled pea or high-fiber food like daphnia.

3. Improve Water Conditions Keep the tank clean and maintain a temperature between 78–82°F. Stable, pristine water helps recovery.

4. Lower the Water Level Reducing water depth to 8–10 cm helps the fish reach the surface more easily.

5. Use Medication (If Necessary) If you suspect infection, consider using antibacterial treatments suitable for aquarium use.

6. Epsom Salt Bath (Optional) 1 tablespoon per gallon of conditioned water for 10–15 minutes may reduce inflammation. Monitor your fish closely.

❌ Treatments to Avoid (Myths vs Facts)

Aquarium Salt: Only helps with external bacterial infections, not swim bladder issues.
Peas as a Cure-All: Only effective if constipation is the root cause.
Overmedicating: Can stress your fish further if the wrong issue is being treated.

🛡️ How to Prevent Swim Bladder Disease

Feed Properly: Small, consistent meals once or twice a day. Avoid overfeeding.
Keep the Water Clean: Regular water changes and filtration are essential.
Control the Temperature: Maintain a stable range of 78–82°F.
Reduce Stress: Avoid overcrowded tanks and give your betta hiding spots.
Choose Quality Food: High-quality pellets and occasional treats like bloodworms or brine shrimp.

🔬 Is It SBD or Something Else?

Symptom	Likely SBD	Possibly Dropsy
Floating sideways	✅	❌
Swollen belly	✅	✅
Appetite loss	✅	✅
Pineconing scales	❌	✅
Clamped fins	✅	✅

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Keep tabs on water parameters, behavior, and symptoms. Catch illnesses early.

📃 Frequently Asked Questions

Can a betta recover from swim bladder disease? Yes, most cases improve with proper care and fasting.

How long does it take to heal? Anywhere from a few days to over a week, depending on the cause.

Should I isolate my betta? Not always necessary, but it may reduce stress and help monitor recovery.

Can swim bladder disease be fatal? Rarely, unless caused by a severe infection or internal organ failure.

Is SBD painful for fish? It can cause discomfort but is generally not painful if treated promptly.