Who Gives A Fish Forums

My betta's been floating weirdly at the top of the tank, kinda sideways. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. Tank's a 5 gallon with a sponge filter, heated to 78F. Been feeding pellets but switched to daphnia yesterday. Any other tips?

Sounds like swim bladder for sure. I'd fast them for a couple days, then try frozen peas with the skin removed. Also, keep the water clean with small daily changes. Had a similar issue last year and that combo worked wonders.

guppy wrote: ↑Wed Jul 16, 2025 11:25 pm Sounds like swim bladder for sure. I'd fast them for a couple days, then try frozen peas with the skin removed. Also, keep the water clean with small daily changes. Had a similar issue last year and that combo worked wonders.

Yep, peas are a lifesaver. Just make sure they're blanched and mushy. Also, check if your pellets are sinking too fast, might be causing them to gulp air.

I'd skip the peas and go for epsom salt baths instead. 1 tsp per gallon for 15 minutes, max twice a day. Works like a charm for bloating and swim bladder issues. Just make sure to dissolve it fully first.