Why your betta fish throws away food?

It's important to understand that betta fish don't actually "throw away" food in the sense that humans do. They might appear to be rejecting food by spitting it out or leaving it uneaten, but there are several reasons why this might be happening:

1. Overfeeding: Bettas are small fish with relatively small stomachs. Overfeeding is a common problem that can lead to health issues. If you're offering too much food, your betta may simply be unable to eat it all.

2. Food Quality: Bettas can be picky eaters. If the food you're offering isn't high quality or doesn't appeal to their taste, they might reject it. Try switching to a different brand or type of food.

3. Water Conditions: Poor water quality can affect a betta's appetite and make them less likely to eat. Make sure you're performing regular water changes and keeping the water parameters within the ideal range.

4. Stress: A stressed betta might refuse to eat. Stress can be caused by a variety of factors, such as overcrowding, aggression from tank mates, poor water conditions, or even a change in environment.

5. Illness: If your betta is showing signs of illness, they may have a decreased appetite. Observe your betta for other signs of illness, such as lethargy, fin rot, or changes in breathing.

6. Natural Behavior: Bettas are naturally curious and might investigate new food items before deciding whether to eat them. Sometimes, they may simply be playing with the food.

7. Age: Older bettas may experience a decrease in appetite as they age.

What to do:

* Reduce Feeding Frequency: Start by offering your betta smaller meals more frequently instead of one large meal.

* Try Different Foods: Experiment with different brands, types (flakes, pellets, frozen foods), and even live foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp.

* Monitor Water Quality: Check your water parameters regularly and perform regular water changes.

* Address Stress: Identify and address any potential sources of stress for your betta.

* Consult a Veterinarian: If your betta's behavior is concerning or you suspect illness, consult a fish veterinarian.

Remember: Observe your betta's behavior and feeding habits carefully. If their appetite doesn't improve after addressing the potential causes, it's best to seek professional advice.