Swim Bladder Disease / Disorder

Causative agent: Bacterial infection; overfeeding; constipation; physical injury; genetic defect; cysts on the swim bladder organ

Swim bladder disease is a broad term used in Australian fishkeeping to describe any condition affecting the organ that allows fish to control their buoyancy. Seeing a beloved goldfish or betta floating helplessly on its side or spinning at the surface is a distressing sight, but the condition is often more manageable than it appears. In goldfish — particularly fancy varieties like Orandas and Ryukins — swim bladder disorder is frequently caused by constipation from dry foods that expand in the gut, compressing the swim bladder. A 48–72 hour fast followed by feeding deshelled frozen peas often produces a dramatic recovery. In bettas, overfeeding and cold water temperatures are common triggers. Bacterial infections can also cause the swim bladder to malfunction, in which case antibiotic treatment is required. Unfortunately, fancy goldfish with genetic predispositions may experience recurrent swim bladder issues regardless of diet. Feeding sinking pellets rather than floating food, and avoiding overfeeding, are the best preventative measures for Australian goldfish keepers.