Green-fish need HELP!

Question
Dear Chris:
 We just recently moved into a 'new' home.  Not only did we get a new home, but also the previous homeowners two beta fish, one male 1 female.  She had them in some small canning jars next to one another.  She told me to change the water out every two weeks and to use distilled water at room tempature.  That I have been doing for almost 2 months.
 The problem started, when we felt sorry for the two and got a dual tank(we did this about 3 wks ago).  He started bubbling and she turned bright red and beautiful.  They both are eating flake food: him alot, she nips at it.  Now all she does is sit at the bottom of the tank and pants.  He does all he can do to swim up & down(her)side of the tank.  We thought we maybe killing her with having them in a duel tank together, so we got another dual tank for him.  She is still down at the bottom and looks like she has gotten fat, but she is not eating.  We know nothing about these fish, except what little I have just read on your site.  Can you help this 'green-fish' family? What is happining and what are we to do?  Thanks so much!

Answer
Hi Amy;

Poor little fish! They might just be old and she is at the end of her life. Bettas live to be 2 or 3 years old but unless you know how long the previous owner had them it will be impossible to tell. No matter what is wrong, it does help to get them to the warmest spot in your house. Bettas like it about 78 to 80 degrees.

They really need their water changed more often too. Clean them once a week. Also, do not use distilled water. It lacks minerals and other trace elements they need to stay strong and healthy. Use regular tap water and add a water conditioner. Just be sure the new water is the same temperature as the old to prevent shock.

It really doesn't bother the female to be close to an "active" male. I think her problems are related more to age, water quality and temperature.

Here are a couple of sites to help you know more about them;

http://www.healthybetta.com
http://www.bettatalk.com

Have fun!

At Your Service;
Chris Robbins