Ciel afraid of the light

[xShainax]

I have a feeling the lights are freaking him out. He swims when the lights are off but gets stressed when they are on.

[Sena Hansler]

How big is the tank and what type of lights? Some tanks (smaller ones) I do not use lights for that reason.

[xShainax]

Originally Posted by Sena Hansler

How big is the tank and what type of lights? Some tanks (smaller ones) I do not use lights for that reason.

It's a 3 gallon tank and the bulb isn't that bright. :/

[Sena Hansler]

Hmm, have you tried a floating plant of some sorts maybe?

[xShainax]

I put an IAL in there

[Sena Hansler]

That might work Is he new?

[xShainax]

I got him Friday and noticed he was getting stressed Sunday night

[Sena Hansler]

Ahh, well since he is still new... Some take a lot longer to adjust. I recommend perhaps for a couple days, don't use the light. Transition to a light being near him, then eventually have the light on with something on the surface to block half or most of the light.

[xShainax]

I hope it's just the light that's the problem. :( He is such a beautiful boy and I don't want to lose him

[Mahachai]

Bettas don't usually like the sudden change of brightness as they don't have eye lids and it's difficult for their eyes to adjust to the light. It hurts a lot. Try leaving the tank near the window for natural light and turn on the bulb as it gets a little darker outside.