Who Gives A Fish Forums

I just got a new betta and I'm not sure what's going on. He's nameless for now, so feel free to suggest something. At the store, he was super active in that tiny tank, probably because he could see another male betta next door. He was also really active in the bag. But now that he's in my tank, he just keeps laying down in three spots at the back. I've had bettas before, but they never did this - I guess they all have different personalities. Is this normal? Will he get more active over time?

He's probably still getting used to his new surroundings, you know, a big change from the store tank. Give him some time, he might just need a little adjustment period.

How long has he been in the tank now? It's normal for fish to feel a bit stressed and withdrawn after a move, adjusting to new surroundings and different water parameters can be overwhelming. If he's still seeming off after a few days, say 2-3, I'd be more concerned then. @roygun_1, I'd love to hear your thoughts, you're the betta expert here.

I'd recommend giving him a 24-hour break from the light, let him chill and get comfortable. I know it's hard not to gaze at him, but he needs this downtime to settle in and claim his territory. Did you do a proper acclimation when you brought him home?

He's been in the tank for eight hours now. I made sure to fully acclimate him, checking the temperature inside and outside the bag to ensure a smooth transition. At this point, he seems content just laying there, and it's nice to see he's already found a few spots that he likes to rest in. I've kept the light off for now, and I'm planning to check on him again in the morning to see how he's doing - thanks for all the advice.

He's been in the tank for eight hours now and seems to be doing okay. I made sure to acclimate him properly, checking the temperature inside and outside the bag to ensure a smooth transition. Right now, he's just relaxing in a few spots he's claimed as his own. I've kept the light off to help him settle in, and I'll check on him in the morning to see how he's doing. I think he's just getting used to his new home.

Your betta is absolutely stunning, I just love him already.

I agree with everyone else. He just needs some time to settle in. He's really beautiful, by the way.

Thanks for all the reassurance, everyone. He's found a few more favorite spots to lay down in now. I had a brief panic when I couldn't see him anywhere, but then I spotted a bit of fin flapping from behind the heater. At the moment, I can just see his grumpy little face poking out from between two rocks. He did swim up to the snail, but didn't seem too interested. Should I try feeding him this morning?

Just had the fright of my life. He managed to squeeze behind my corner filter. I've now blocked it up with filter floss after I got him out, what a relief. He does seem more active now, but unfortunately didn't accept food when I offered it. My tank has a black background and lots of plants, which he seems to be exploring a bit more now that he's feeling more at home. I think seeing another male betta at the store might have stressed him out a bit, but I'm hoping he'll settle in soon. I've had bettas in the past that were exploring straight away and eating, so I just wanted to make sure everything was ok with this little guy. Thankfully, he seems to be doing better now and I've taken steps to prevent any future filter mishaps. Thanks again for all your advice and reassurance, and yeah, he's a real sweetheart.