darting betta

Question
Hi Jaymie,

I can't believe I am asking you another question. I don't know whats happening. As you well know, Rudy died and now Richie has been running around the top of the tank like a mad man and then diving down into the gravel and hiding. This is kind of what Rudy did before his end. What is happening here. They have gone from healthy to this. I did buy a replacement for Rudy And am wondering if I should separate them. What could be the cause of these weird actions any ideas?   Thanks

Answer
Pat,
No problem, that is what I am here for. This could be because you added a new fish. If they are in the same tank, then yes they need to be separate. Are you checking the water for ammonia and nitrites and is the heater set to 80 degrees? It is hard to tell why he is swimming that way other than a new fish. Whenever I have to add a new one, the boys on either side start acting up for about a week. If the water perimeters are ok, I would just watch to make sure he does not hurt himself. Maybe shorten the time the light is on. Let me know if things start going bad.