About Betta Fish

The Betta Fish, also known as the Siamese Fighting Fish, is one of the most popular freshwater aquarium fish. Known for their vibrant colors and flowing fins, male Bettas are particularly territorial and cannot be housed together. They are labyrinth fish, meaning they can breathe air from the surface, allowing them to survive in low-oxygen environments.

Care Guide

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Betta Fish need a minimum of 5 gallons, though 10 gallons or more is recommended for optimal health. They require:

  • A gentle filter (strong currents stress them)
  • A heater to maintain 76-82°F
  • Hiding places like caves or plants
  • A lid (they are jumpers!)

Water Quality

  • Temperature: 76-82°F (24-28°C)
  • pH: 6.5-7.5
  • Water Hardness: Soft to moderate
  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: <20 ppm

Regular water changes of 25-30% weekly are essential to maintain water quality.

Feeding

Bettas are carnivorous and should be fed a varied diet:

  • High-quality betta pellets as staple
  • Freeze-dried bloodworms or brine shrimp as treats
  • Live foods occasionally (mosquito larvae, daphnia)

Feeding Schedule: 2-3 small meals per day, only what they can eat in 2 minutes.

Behavior & Compatibility

Male Bettas are highly territorial and will fight to the death if housed together. They can sometimes coexist with:

  • Snails (Nerite, Mystery)
  • Shrimp (Amano, Ghost)
  • Peaceful bottom-dwellers like Corydoras (in larger tanks)

Avoid: Other colorful fish, long-finned fish, or anything they might mistake for rival bettas.

Common Health Issues

  1. Fin Rot: Caused by poor water quality; treat with water changes and medication
  2. Ich: White spots; increase temperature and treat with medication
  3. Swim Bladder Disease: Often from overfeeding; fast for 24-48 hours
  4. Velvet: Gold dust appearance; treat immediately

Breeding

Betta breeding is an advanced topic. Males build bubble nests, and females should be introduced only temporarily for spawning. Remove the female immediately after breeding, as the male will guard the eggs and fry.

Tips for Success

  • Keep only one male Betta per tank
  • Provide plenty of resting spots near the surface
  • Use Indian Almond Leaves to create blackwater conditions
  • Never keep in bowls or vases (despite popular myths)
  • Test water parameters weekly

Compatible Tank Mates

🐠 Snails
🐠 Shrimp
🐠 Corydoras Catfish