Betta fish are renowned for their vibrant colors and spectacular fins. These beautiful fish are popular pets all over the world and are relatively easy to care for. One of the most fascinating things about betta fish is their ability to change colors.
But why do they do this?
There are several reasons a betta fish might switch up its colors and losing color. It might be reacting to stress, illness, feeling unwell, or simply growing up. Let’s dive deeper into each of these potential reasons.
Why is My Betta Fish Changing Its Color?
1. Betta Stress Will Change Color
A new piece of furniture in the room, a change in the water temperature, or even a loud noise can trigger a stress response in betta fish.
As explained above, when betta fish are stressed, the hormone cortisol they released into their bloodstream makes them become duller.
If your betta fish is experiencing prolonged stress, it can lead to serious health problems such as diseases, fin rot, and even death. Therefore, it’s essential to try to minimize stress in your betta’s environment as much as possible:
- Check the level of nitrate (< 20 ppm) and ammonia (0.5 ppm)
- Keep a moderate light for 15 hours daily for betta fish
- Check if the fish have dispute and fight
2. Betta Fish Might Change Colors is Illness
Another reason why betta fish might change colors is Illness. When betta fish is sick, their immune system kicks into overdrive and produces more white blood cells.
As the number of white blood cells increases, so does the hemoglobin in the blood. This can cause the betta’s skin to turn a pale pink or white color.
If your betta’s color changes suddenly and they seem lethargic or have lost their appetite, it’s a good idea to take them to the vet for a check-up.
3. Maturity
As betta fish age, their bodies go through some changes that can cause their colors to change. For example, older bettas might develop a “dusty” appearance as their skin cells die and are replaced with new ones.
Some bettas will also develop horizontal lines on their bodies as they age. These lines are called “stress bars,” and they’re usually caused by the betta’s environment (e.g., poor water quality, lack of food, etc.).
4. Betta Diet Can Also Affect The Color
What your betta eats can also affect their color. Betta fish are carnivores, meaning they need love insects, flakes, dried bloodworms, or any food with a high protein level.
If your betta isn’t getting enough nutrients, their colors will start to fade. On the other hand, if they’re overeating one type of food (e.g., only pellets or only live food), their colors might become brighter than usual.
It’s important to feed your betta a variety of foods to ensure they’re getting all the nutrients they need.
4. Age – Colors Will Change Naturally
As betta fish get older, their colors will start to change. This is a natural part of the aging process and is nothing to be concerned about. However, older bettas might develop “stress bars” or a “dusty” appearance, as mentioned earlier.
As bettas get older, their colors will naturally start to fade. This is because the cells in their skin become less efficient at producing pigments.
You might also notice that your betta’s fins become shorter, and their body becomes rounder as they age. These changes are normal and nothing to be concerned about.
5. Temperature Can Also Affect Betta Color
The water temperature can also affect a betta’s color. Betta fish are tropical fish and prefer water between 76 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit/
The betta’s colors will become duller if the water is too cold. On the other hand, if the water is too warm, the betta’s colors will become brighter.
Therefore, it’s important to maintain a consistent water temperature to keep your betta healthy and happy.
6. Betta Fish Change Color When They’re Pregnant
Betta fish change color when they’re ready to breed. The male betta’s colors will become brighter and more intense, and the female betta’s colors will become paler. This is a way for the two fish to “signal” that they’re ready to mate.
Betta fish also change color when they’re pregnant. The female betta’s belly will become rounder, and her colors will become darker. This is a way for the male betta to know that she’s carrying his eggs and needs to be treated with care.
Source: Creative Pet Keeping
Why is My Betta Losing Color?
Exactly “stress and illness” are two major reasons your Betta might lose its color. Betta fish are highly sensitive creatures and any changes to their surroundings can provoke stress.
When betta fish are stressed, they release a hormone called cortisol into their bloodstream. This hormone makes the blood vessels constrict and reduces the flow of blood to the skin. As a result, the betta’s colors will become duller, and their fins will clench.
Why is My Betta Fish Turning White?
When a betta fish is sick, their immune system kicks into overdrive and produces more white blood cells. As the number of white blood cells increases, so does the hemoglobin in the blood. This can cause the betta’s skin to turn a pale pink or white color.
If your betta’s color changes suddenly and they seem lethargic or have lost their appetite, it’s a good idea to take them to the vet for a check-up.
Why is My Betta Fish Turning Orange?
Bettas may turn orange due to specific dietary inputs or breeding processes. Certain foods, particularly those rich in carotenoids, can bring out more orange-red hues in a betta.
Also, during breeding, bettas can often display intensified colors, which can make a betta appear more orange.
>> See more: 35 Types of Betta Fish: Top Colors, Tails and Most Beautiful
Conclusion
There are a few different reasons why do betta fish change color and losing color. It could be a response to stress, illness, or even just a sign of maturity. However, if you notice that your betta’s color has changed suddenly or drastically, it’s a good idea to take them to the vet for a check-up.
Do you have a betta fish? Has their color ever changed? Share with National Park Aquarium your tips and how to keep them healthy!
