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

Have you noticed your beautiful betta fish struggling to swim normally? Are you wondering why your betta is swimming sideways? Perhaps they’re floating helplessly at the surface, sinking to the bottom of the tank, or swimming in odd spirals. These could be signs of Swim Bladder Disease (SBD). 

In this post, we’ll explore this condition, how to identify it, and, most importantly, how to help treat your betta for a full recovery.

What is Swim Bladder Disease?

Swim Bladder Disease isn’t a single disease. It’s a symptom of an underlying problem affecting your betta’s swim bladder. This gas-filled organ is like a little internal balloon that helps fish control their buoyancy. When something disrupts it, your betta loses the ability to swim properly. Betta fish, goldfish, and other fancy varieties are especially prone to SBD.

Symptoms: How to Spot Trouble

Keep a close eye out for these signs:

• Buoyancy Issues: Your betta may float uncontrollably to the top, sink to the bottom of the tank, or have trouble staying upright and end up laying on its side.
• Odd Swimming: Betta fish swimming sideways, in circles, erratic swimming, upside down, or struggling to swim in a straight line.
• Lethargy: Bettas with SBD often become less active and show little interest in food.
• Bloated Belly: A swollen abdomen is a common sign of constipation, a frequent cause of SBD.

What Causes Swim Bladder Disease?

• Constipation is King: The most common culprit is a digestive issue. Bettas get constipated from overeating, low-quality food, or a lack of fiber. The blockage puts pressure on the swim bladder.
• Temperature Troubles: Sudden changes in water temperature can shock your betta’s system, affecting the swim bladder.
• Injury: Physical damage to the swim bladder from an accident in the tank can lead to SBD.
• Sometimes, it’s Genetic: Some bettas may unfortunately have a predisposition to swim bladder problems.

How To Treat Swim Bladder in Betta

• Step 1: Find the Cause: Is it bloating, odd swimming along with clamped fins, or a sudden issue after a tank cleaning?
• Treating Constipation:
  • Fasting: Skip feeding for 3-4 days to allow your betta’s digestive system to clear.
  • High-Fiber Foods: After fasting, offer tiny portions of cooked, peeled peas or daphnia (live or frozen).
• Optimizing Water: Ensure your tank temperature is a steady 78-80°F and water quality is pristine (test for ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates).
• When to See a Vet: If symptoms persist or worsen, or you see signs of infection, consult an aquatic veterinarian.

Prevention is Key

• Clean Water is Everything: Regular partial water changes are the best way to prevent many fish illnesses, including SBD.
• Quality Diet: Feed high-quality betta foods, offer frozen or live treats like brine shrimp, and avoid overfeeding.

Remember, Swim Bladder Disease is often treatable with some know-how and care. Check out our full care guide here.