Who Gives A Fish Forums

My betta tank's water has been cloudy for days, even after a water change. I've got a 5-gallon with a sponge filter, and I feed him twice a day. What's the deal?

Cloudy water usually means a bacterial bloom. Check your ammonia and nitrite levels first. If they're high, it's likely a cycle crash. How often do you change the water?

Yo, same thing happened to me last week. I cut back on feeding and did small water changes every other day. Cleared up in like, four days. Try that.

FryBoys wrote: ↑Thu Jun 26, 2025 1:12 am Yo, same thing happened to me last week. I cut back on feeding and did small water changes every other day. Cleared up in like, four days. Try that.

Yep, overfeeding's a common culprit. Also, what's your substrate? Fine sand can kick up particles if you're not careful.

Mine did this when I first set it up. It's just the tank settling, probably. Give it time unless your fish seems stressed.

If it's white cloudy, it's bacteria. Green means algae. Either way, reduce light exposure and check your filter media. A UV sterilizer can help if it's persistent.

Thanks, everyone. I'll test the water and cut back on food. Appreciate the tips!

Had this issue with my 10-gallon. Turned out the filter wasn't cycled properly. Added some beneficial bacteria, and it cleared right up.

How old is your tank? New tanks often go through this phase. Just keep up with maintenance, and it'll stabilize.

Vikingo1 wrote: ↑Thu Jun 26, 2025 6:20 am If it's white cloudy, it's bacteria. Green means algae. Either way, reduce light exposure and check your filter media. A UV sterilizer can help if it's persistent.

Agreed. Also, avoid overcleaning the filter. You'll kill off the good bacteria.