Flares at his reflection constantly!

[Emerson]

Hi,
I just discovered that Napoleon has been flaring at himself whenever his tank light is turned off. Somehow this lighting creates a reflection of himself at the back of the aquarium, against the black power filter. He seems to do this for long stretches of time -- usually until I turn his light back on.

Does anybody know if this is unhealthy? I suspect this is one reason he had had so much trouble with a shredded tail fin (which is still healing), but am wondering if it is hard on him stress-wise to do so much flaring at himself.

Thanks!
UPDATE: I just discovered that placing a sheet of blank, white paper against the back of his tank removes the reflection completely. My question is, should I do this, or just let him enjoy flaring at himself?

sef

[Betta MVP]

sef,
I was going to suggest doing exactly what you did, LOL. If he flares at it and won't stop or can think of nothing else but flaring, then that's too much. Maybe just let him do it for a little while and then replace the paper when you think he's had enough.

Black against the side of the tank definitely makes it easier for our little guys to see their reflection!

[BettaBGood]

sef & bmvp,

Too funny! I also use a "paper trail". (Depending on which light(s) are on in the room, their shadows sometimes show against the paper & they flare at those, too!

[Emerson]

Well, get this: I took the piece of paper off so I could clean around the filter this evening, and Napoleon started his usual flaring at the "intruder" at the back of his tank -- this time with unusual gusto. After a couple of minutes of very intense flaring, he swam up to the front of the tank with his fins clamped and stared at me as if to say, "That other Betta is winning." LOL! I promptly replaced the paper, and Nappy quickly reclaimed his kingdom.