Is My Betta Fish Dying Of Old Age?

Recently I've been noticing my 5 year old betta fish hiding in ornaments, and having a hard time swimming up to the surface (usually he hangs out on the surface, but now rarely; while writing this, he just swam up for a bit and went down). His tail also sinks when he does swim up, and also has difficulty spotting food (I feed him dried bloodworms); He's also been eating less

His stomach isn't pumped or anything, it's the normal size. His head has been turning into a dark-reddish-brown, from black.

He's in a

Any help would be appreciated!
(Sorry I couldn't get a more clear photo)

 

5 years is a very long life for a betta so maybe. Some things to try would be some live foods or frozen bloodworms. Might re energize him for a bit.

 

It sounds like he's nearing his end. Bettas aren't supposed to be fed only freeze dried bloodworms as they're fatty and lack other essential nutrients for a healthy fish. It should only be a treat that's fed once or twice a week.

 

I think my betta was 6 when he died it really helped to soak his food in seachem garlic gaurd when he acted lethargic it would cause him to perk up. Have you noticed him changing over time, or did his behavior change all at once?

 

I've heard in the right conditions they can live 10-15 years. Is that only in the wild??

 

I've heard in the right conditions they can live 10-15 years. Is that only in the wild??

The world record for a betta is 10 years or so. But generally 3 years is average and 5 years is a long life. In the wild is is definitely less than that.

 

It sounds like he's nearing his end. Bettas aren't supposed to be fed only freeze dried bloodworms as they're fatty and lack other essential nutrients for a healthy fish. It should only be a treat that's fed once or twice a week.

I see; I'll be buying pellets soon. Thanks for letting me know

5 years is a very long life for a betta so maybe. Some things to try would be some live foods or frozen bloodworms. Might re energize him for a bit.

I can't even handle killing bugs so it won't be possible though I might try feeding him frozen bloodworms. Thank you!

I think my betta was 6 when he died it really helped to soak his food in seachem garlic gaurd when he acted lethargic it would cause him to perk up. Have you noticed him changing over time, or did his behavior change all at once?

I think gradually. He started to hang out less on the surface, and started going into ornaments (before he never hid in any). He also stopped building bubble nests.
Another thing is his vision (?), he can't seem to see the food now, and always misses unless it was put right on top of his mouth
And he doesn't react anymore if I or someone else is in front of the tank (usually if he sees people he swims to the top, or stares at them curiously)

 

Update: he passed away yesterday, on top of a flower ornament

S.I.P

 

I'm so sorry for your loss

 

Update: he passed away yesterday, on top of a flower ornament

S.I.P

So sorry for your loss but to keep a Betta in good condition for 5 years says a lot about your ability. You have given him very good care and been rewarded.

 

Sorry for your loss. You gave him a great life and don't ever think otherwise! Winner!!

 

I’m sorry for your loss. But congrats on keeping him for 5 years. It’s always hard to lose a fish friend, but it always makes me feel good when they pass of old age because I know I gave them a long, healthy, happy life in an aquarium they loved.

S.I.P!!

 

Mr Bettas had a great 5 years. I'm sorry for your loss and wish you as much success with your next betta.