Betta fish are mostly known to be among the most stunning freshwater fish on earth. It is popularly known for its vibrant colors, unique personality, and flowing fins. Many fish farmers and regular people also prefer this fish species for keeping since they are easier to feed. In addition, taking care of a betta fish is manageable, making it an ideal choice. For better breeding, however, knowing how long a betta can go without eating is usually very fundamental.

A betta can survive without food for about 10 to 14 days. As the days indicate, it may take no specific time before it dies. One thing that makes a betta fish stay long is its stomach size. It is said that this fish species has a tiny stomach, making them need a small amount of food to survive.

Although a betta fish can go up to 14 days without eating anything, it is not recommended to stop feeding them during that period. For instance, if you want healthy fish, you should feed them at least twice daily. This will help your fish grow well, reducing the chances of getting infected or sick. Hence, a proper diet at the correct time is advised.

4 Reasons Why a Betta Fish Can Go for Many Days Without Food

1. Small Stomach Size

Compared to other fish species, betta fish have tiny stomachs that can be compared with their eye. A small stomach, therefore, means that there is a low intake of food. This factor makes them not feed much since less feeding makes them full.

2. The Size of the Tank

Where you store your fish will determine a lot about its survival rate. In the case of a betta fish, it would be challenging to survive in a small tank.

A small tank may increase the chances of harm if not cleaned regularly, making fasting difficult. A larger tank, on the other hand, is what is required. The fish can stay long in a larger tank during the fasting season.

3. The Bettas General Health

The general health of the fish will also determine how long it will be able to go without food. This means that there might be variations in the fasting period.

A healthier betta will stay long since its body is strong and functions well. On the other hand, it would be challenging for an unhealthy one to stay for that long. Before considering fasting, it is best to have a general knowledge of the fish’s health.

4. Age

Among the many factors that will determine how long a betta fish will stay without food is age. A mature fish, for instance, will tend to survive longer than a younger one.

This happens because an older fish may have much fat reserved to tap into when hunger strikes. On the contrary, a younger fish may have only a little fat.

Why Is My Betta Not Eating for 2 Weeks?

There are several reasons why your betta fish might not be eating. One of the most common reasons is water. It is, therefore, vital that you consider testing your water’s chemistry. Excellent and healthy water will make your fish healthy and more productive.

Other reasons why your betta fish might not be eating include the following:

1. Poor Diet

Diet is very crucial when it comes to breeding betta fish. The fish may refuse to feed because the diet is poor. Food such as pellets is recommended to be provided to them.

The food should, however, be administered once or twice a day to prevent your betta from overeating.

2. Stress

Stress is a huge enemy when it comes to the general health of a betta fish. When the fish is stressed, it will be challenging to feed.

The stress may be a result of poor water quality. Hence, as a recommendation, it would be best to treat the water and clean the tanks frequently.

3. Diseases

Treating your fish will lower the chance of it not feeding. Just like humans, when sick, they may be unable to consume food; the same applies to betta fish. 

It is, therefore, your responsibility to ensure that your fish is in good health and free from any form of disease.

4. Environmental Changes

Environmental changes like water temperature may make your betta fish not eat for up to 2 weeks. It is usually advisable that the water temperatures stay between 75 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. 

If the water drops or rises above this level, the fish’s active chances are reduced, thus making it not eat.

5. Competition

A lot of competition may prevent the fish from eating. For instance, when the environment around the betta is congested, the fish may be uncomfortable. It would be best to consider decongesting the environment for better fish health.

What a Starving Betta Fish Look Like

Are you trying to find out Here are two main ways of knowing what a starving betta fish looks like.

1. The eyes tend to be more clear

2. The stomach will begin to protrude

Can I Leave My Betta Fish for 3 Days Without Food?

Yes. You can leave your fish for three days without food. Typically, these species may survive up to 14 days. It is, however, recommended that you leave them for a short time.

Knowing how many days betta fry can survive without food is very fundamental. This will help reduce the chances of it starving to death if necessary precautions are taken. Alternatively, consider getting a Betta vacation feeder for better feeding.

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