Resting, missing food or becoming ill?
Brief rest during the dark period differs from prolonged daytime bottom sitting with clamped fins or unusual breathing. Observe without tapping the glass. Compare the fish with its normal pattern rather than judging one still photograph.
A telescope may want to eat but fail to locate food, especially after a layout change or when fast companions take every pellet. Watch a small meal closely: does the fish approach, miss, spit out food or ignore it?
Check water and equipment first
Test ammonia and nitrite immediately, then temperature and pH. Check filter output and surface movement. If other fish are also lethargic or breathing rapidly, treat shared water conditions as a priority.
Correct detected water problems with conditioned, temperature-matched water and retest. Remove accumulated food. Do not leave extra pellets on the bottom for a fish that is not eating; they can worsen the environment.
Try a controlled feeding observation
Offer a small amount of suitable sinking food at a familiar, clear spot. Temporarily distract faster companions at the other end. If the telescope eats readily when competition is reduced, change the feeding arrangement and review stocking.
If it approaches but repeatedly misses, check for new eye cloudiness or injury. If it cannot stay upright or reach food, follow the buoyancy guide. Avoid force-feeding without professional instruction.
When bottom sitting needs prompt assessment
Persistent food refusal with weight loss, swollen abdomen, skin damage or laboured breathing needs advice from an aquatic veterinarian. A fish that collapses or deteriorates quickly should not wait through a fixed number of fasting days.
Provide the tank size, number of fish, water results, timing of the last normal meal and any recent additions. A short video showing breathing and swimming is useful. Distinguish a longstanding disability from a sudden change.
Reduce recurring feeding stress
Maintain a predictable routine, smooth decor and several feeding locations. Review the feeding guide for portion control and the tank-mate guide for competition risks.
Frequently asked questions
Is sitting at the bottom always swim bladder disease?
No. Resting, poor water, respiratory distress, injury and other illnesses can also cause bottom sitting.
Should I keep adding food until it eats?
No. Offer a small observed portion and remove leftovers while investigating the cause.