Do Betta Fish Sleep? [Answered]

The question of do betta fish sleep or not usually pops up when a hobbyist finds them lying motionless and thinks they’re dead, or when their fish never sits still. The reason you may not see your betta fish sleeping is because they sleep at night. Chances are you’re sleeping too! All fish need sleep, so yes, betta fish do sleep.

One interesting thing however is betta fish do not have eyelids (only sharks do!). Even when they’re asleep or resting, you may think they’re still awake. Avoid tapping on the tank every time they go motionless because they may be resting. How much do you hate when someone wakes you up from a nice snooze?

Betta Fish Sleep Characteristics

Betta fish (and other fish too) through genetics still have nature engrained into their DNA for species survival. Despite being safe in most aquarium ecosystems, they are still territorial and on constant alert.

Some bettas prefer to sleep near the surface and just sit motionless. Others will find recluse in decorations or just through laying on the bottom in an L-shape. Some will look lifeless laying on their side.

You can reduce stress by having plenty of hiding spots for your betta to seek rest and feel safe. These may include large leafy artificial plants (silk only), driftwood, decorative houses, hammocks, and real plants. It’s also important to turn off your tank and room lights at night as fish use them to cycle their sleeping habits.

Witness Your Betta Sleeping

The easiest way to see your betta sleeping is to approach the tank when the lights have been off for the night. Maybe when you get up in the middle of the night to use the restroom? Grab a flashlight and cover most of the light’s beam with your other hand so you don’t wake him or her up.

Betta fish may also sleep or rest periodically during the day too. Because they have vastly differing personalities, each will be different. Some betta fish act very lazy and will rest or sleep a lot, while others will be active during most of the day and night.

Pictures of Betta Fish Sleeping

Now that you know betta fish do sleep, try not to bother them when they’re resting (“Let Sleeping Fish Lie”). Putting your fingers in the water and touching them, tapping on the tank, or toppling over their safe spot can really stress them out and make them fear for their safety. As your betta fish ages, they may become increasingly lethargic and sleep more than they used to. This is normal.

If you have any questions about betta fish and sleep, make sure you use the comments below: