Betta Fish Flaring their Gills
Apr 27, 2021
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As a betta fish owner, you will observe different types of behavior from them. Sometimes they do different activities to protect themselves or to have fun.Betta fish are flaring their gills most of the time when an intruder enters their area. This is not the only reason they are puffing their gills. They act like that for a particular reason. You may be wondering, are flaring gills a bad or good sign?
We are trying to figure out this fascinating behavior. So without any further ado, let's drive into the reason for understanding why you see your betta fish flaring gills. Learn more here.
Why Do Betta Fish Flare Their Gills at Us?
If you're a betta fish owner, you must notice your betta flaring its gills. It is a pervasive nature we see in betta fish.
They are flaring gills mostly when you are passing near them, or other fishes enter their territory. At that moment, by puffing their gills, they signal others don't come closer.
If they don't recognize you, they will show their aggressiveness by flaring gills. Thankfully, this is very rare that betta is flaring after seeing their owner.
Sometimes they are flaring when they see their reflection in the glass.
Why Do Bettas Show Aggressive Behavior?
Bettas are a very aggressive species. If they dislike something, do not hesitate to show their aggressive attitude. It could be more violent when two or more betta males meet each other with the same aggression. So, you must avoid keeping two betta males at the same time in a small tank. If you have a big fish tank and plenty of space to share, then it's safe for two bettas.
Betta have wild and violent nature, and they can even flare after seeing other fishes. So, add as much as a hiding place using rocks, caves and plants.
Do Betta Flare When They See Their Reflection?
It is the most common reason betta flare their gills. When they see their reflection on the glass, they often think it is another betta and they immediately start flaring to fight.
This excessive flare aggression leads them to stress. To overcome the situation, remove light as much as possible and add more plants.
When they see no reflection, they will soon stop chasing themselves. If your betta is flaring their gills too much, put dividers between your tanks to avoid seeing other fish.
Is Flaring Gills Bad for Betta Health?
Flaring gills is a normal behavior of betta. If betta does it sometimes, it helps keep them healthy. But if they do excessively, then it doesn't seem normal.
Excessive flaring can break their immune system. At that time, they feel too much stress in their body. Often too much flaring can cause certain diseases.
In such cases, you need to take immediate medical action for your betta fish.
Conclusion
When your betta fish flares, that doesn't mean something bad every time. Moreover, the purpose of chasing intruders in their territory helps them keep healthy.
Remember, if your betta does it once or twice, it will feel refreshed. Make sure it doesn't do it continuously. If it does, take necessary action to reduce stress.
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