New betta sits in corner

[streetlightdawn]

So yesterday I went out and bought a 2.5 gallon tank and an awesome dt betta. I set up the tank, added the water treater, and then acclimated him by letting him float in a cup in the water and then pouring some of the new water into his cup. When I finally put him into the new tank, he swam around a bit, but then went to the corner behind one of the plants near the surface, and hasn't moved since.
At first I thought that he was just resting cause it had been a big day, but this morning he is still in the exact same place with his fins clamped. He doesn't move except to raise his head to get some air. I tried feeding him but he doesn't pay any attention to the pellets.
The only thing that I can think that I am doing wrong is that I don't have a heater. I tried to buy one from petsmart and petco, but they were both sold out. I checked the water temperature though, and it's at 73 degrees.
Should I be doing somethinge else? I don't know the parameters, but I can't imagine that the ammonia or anything is high considering the water is all new from yesterday afternoon. Sorry for the long post

[Yuuki]

The temperature could definately be part of the problem. 73 is a little cold for bettas and can make them act this way.

Only other thing I could think of... are you using a water conditioner?


Otherwise, I haven't got a clue, unless it just happens that you bought him sick. They're always a bit shy when you bring them home, but having them sit in the corner for so long is unusual.

Does he react at all if you try touching him?

[streetlightdawn]

Yeah I put in a water conditioner. I'm going back to petsmart on Tuesday cause that's when the employee said they get shipments in, so hopefully a heater comes in.
He'll move a little bit when I tap on the glass or something. He did swim to hide behind the filter now, so I'm feeling a bit better, but now he's just sitting behind the filter... Maybe he is just used to being stuck in a little bowl and isn't sure what to do with so much space?

[Katana]

the first few days mine did that.. sat behind the plant 4 ever. i put in a little toy though, and now he's swimming around it. dunno if that helps.

Katana

[3ltonWorri3s]

Yeah, he's probably shy.

[lilyrazen]

I bet he's fine, he's probably just stressed to be in such a different environment. Give him a day or so and he should be better!

[dramaqueen]

Yeah, it may be that he's still stressed and getting used to his new home. Hopefully, he'll be ok in a day or two.