AboutAmber Worman Expertise I specialize in Gouramis, Black Moors, Fantail goldfish, and Bettas. I can answer questions about fish behavior, tank mates, diseases, and living conditions. I do not have much experience with breeding these types of fish, however.
Experience Fish are my passion - I have raised these types of fish for as long as I can remember. I am a college student at Purdue University where I have a major in Biology and a position as a lab technician in a fish laboratory.
Expert: Amber Worman Date: 4/13/2008 Subject: Betta fish
Question I purchased a young Betta fish (Crowntail) today, and he seems to be breathing heavily ( i.e. open mouth, moving up and down slightly as he breathes and his gills are moving more than they should. ) I have 12 Bettas but this is the first time I've ever encountered this. Do you know what could be wrong with him?
Answer Hello Chance -
I am assuming that all of your bettas are kept in individual containers; perhaps this new betta's water is too warm? Bettas often breathe quickly when they are too hot, or when there is an ammonia problem in their water. I would recommend doing a complete water change, if possible, and getting your water tested at PetsMart. Also double check to make sure your betta's container is not made of plastic (which can leach chemicals) and is clear of any soap/cleaning product residue that may cause health issues.
I, and many others who have raised bettas, have found Crowntails to be much more fragile than "regular" veil-tail bettas, so your new betta may just be genetically weaker than your other fish.
