What should you do if your betta fish was injured and is breathing but lying on its side in the tank?

1. Isolate the Injured Betta Fish: Immediately remove the injured fish from the main aquarium and place it in a separate container, such as a small quarantine tank or a clean, disinfected bowl. This is important to prevent further stress and exposure to harmful bacteria from the community tank.

2. Check for Physical Injuries: Gently examine the betta fish to identify any visible injuries such as cuts, tears, or open wounds. Look for any signs of scale loss, fin damage, or external parasites.

3. Clean and Disinfect the Water: Use a soft net to transfer the fish to a clean and disinfected container filled with fresh, dechlorinated water. Make sure to match the temperature of the new water to that of the main tank to minimize stress.

4. Provide a Calm Environment: Keep the container in a quiet, dark place to reduce stress and allow the fish to rest and recover. Avoid handling or disturbing the fish unnecessarily.

5. Monitor Water Quality: Regularly monitor the water parameters in the quarantine tank, including temperature, pH, and ammonia levels, and adjust as needed.

6. Medicate if Necessary: If the injury is severe or appears to be infected, consult with a veterinarian or a knowledgeable aquarium specialist. They can prescribe appropriate medication or provide further treatment advice based on the specific injury.

7. Offer Small Feedings: Provide the betta fish with small amounts of easily digestible food, such as brine shrimp or finely crushed high-quality betta pellets. Avoid overfeeding, as this can put unnecessary stress on the digestive system.

8. Monitor Progress: Closely monitor the injured fish's progress over the next few days. If the fish's condition improves and it starts swimming normally, you may gradually reintroduce it to the main tank.

9. Follow Up Treatment: In case of a slow recovery or if the condition worsens, seek further advice from an expert or consult with a veterinarian who specializes in fish health.