Betta splendens, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are a highly popular freshwater fish known for their striking and vibrant tail colors. They can be found in aquariums all over the world, captivating fish enthusiasts with their beauty.
However, due to their popularity, there is a lot of misinformation available online, particularly for beginners.
This guide aims to provide all the information needed to properly care for betta fish, including the size of the tank, filtration system, water temperature, diet, and even how to decorate the aquarium to mimic their natural habitat.
| Common name(s) | Betta, Siamese fighting fish, Japanese fighting fish |
| Binomial name | Betta splendens |
| Care level | Moderate |
| Temperament | Aggressive |
| Size range – length | 3 inches |
| Water parameters | Temperature 76 – 82FpH 6,8 – 7,4dGH 5 – 20 |
| Tank level | Middle and top |
| Diet | Carnivore |
| Lifespan | 3 – 5 years; even up to 10 years |
| Breeding | Egg layers (bettas build a bubble nest) |
| Tank mates | Tetras, Corydoras, cherry barbs, mystery snails, ghost shrimp, feeder guppies, harlequin rasboras |
Origin
Betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are native to Southeast Asia, specifically found in countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. They thrive in shallow, freshwater areas such as rice paddies, stagnant ponds, marshes, and slow-moving streams where the temperature is around 80º Fahrenheit. Due to their origin in Asian climates, they are adapted to warm water environments.
The prevalence of rice farming in Southeast Asia provided an ideal habitat for bettas, leading to their discovery and domestication by humans. The shallow water and high air temperature causes gases to rapidly evaporate, leading to a significant deficit of oxygen in the betta’s natural habitat.
This environment likely led to the evolution of the lung-like labyrinth organ, which allows bettas to breathe directly from the air. This adaptation enables them to survive and even thrive in harsher environments than other freshwater fish, which in turn leaves them with fewer natural predators and competitors.
In the wild, bettas can be found at a low population density of 1. 7 individuals per square meter.
Size
A typical size for a Betta fish is around 2.5 – 3 inches in length, not including their tail. The size of the tail can vary greatly from fish to fish, however, generally speaking, fish that are in good health tend to have larger and more vibrant tails.
On the other hand, fish that are not well may exhibit a curled or damaged tail, whereas healthy fish will have long, well-maintained tails that flow smoothly and easily. A fish with a healthy tail is an indication that the fish is in good condition and well taken care of.
Lifespan
The typical lifespan of a domesticated betta fish is between 2-3 years, however, with proper care, it is possible for a betta to live up to 6 years and even 10 years in some cases. To ensure your betta lives a long and healthy life, it is essential to provide the best possible environment for them.
When purchasing a betta from a pet store, it is important to ask about the age of the fish in order to maximize the time you have with your new pet. Alternatively, getting a very young betta from a reputable breeder can also help you to enjoy the fish for a longer period of time.
Availability
The price of a Betta fish can vary greatly depending on the specific type, color, and characteristics of the fish.
Some Bettas can be found for as low as $15, while others can be priced at over $100. The variety and rarity of the color and traits of the fish will also affect its cost.
The good news is that there is a Betta for every budget, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and how unique or exotic you want the color to be.
Appearance and Sex Differences
Siamese fighting fish, also known as Bettas, come in a variety of colors. They are known for their long tail fins and torpedo-shaped bodies, as well as their upturned mouths which they use to feed on the water surface. They can be classified by their tail shape, color, and pattern.
There are slight differences in appearance between wild and captive Bettas, with captive Bettas having brighter colors, although both can display brighter colors when feeling threatened.
Tail
The most common tail shape is the Veiltail, which has long and sleek fins that swoop downward. Another popular option is the Combtail, which has a tail and fins that taper to points, giving it a ragged “comb” appearance. The Crowntail is similar to the Combtail, but has a fringed edge on its fins, creating a crown-like appearance.
One of the most striking tail shapes is the Halfmoon, which has fins that fan out in a full 180 degrees, creating a half-circle shape. This tail shape makes the betta particularly beautiful. For something truly unique, there’s the Double tail betta, which has two separate and distinct tail fins.
Another less common tail shape is the Delta, which has fins that narrow at the top of its body and fan out at the tail fins. This tail shape is similar to the Halfmoon, but doesn’t quite reach the half-circle shape.
Color
Bettas come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including popular options like black, red, non-red (yellow), blue, cellophane (clear), albino, and the rare purple. The shades and hues within each color can also vary, resulting in a diverse range of unique appearances.
Pattern
While solid colored bettas do exist, they are less common than those with patterns. Some common patterns include:
- marbled, where the fish has half light and half dark colors on its body and fins with a noticeable contrast
- grizzled, which creates an iridescent effect with delicate strokes of color
- butterfly, which is similar to a bi-colored betta with one color on the body and another on the fins, with a definite line separating the two
- bi-color, which are very common and come in a variety of color combinations
Male vs female
Determining the gender of a Betta fish can be done by observing its fins, body shape, behavior and reproductive organs.
Male Bettas typically have longer, more flowing fins and an elongated body shape. On the other hand, female Bettas have shorter fins and a more round body shape. In terms of behavior, male Bettas are known to be more aggressive and territorial, while females are generally more docile.
Male Bettas also tend to flare their fins more frequently than females. During breeding season, males also have breeding tubercles, small white spots, in their gills or fins which are not present in females.
It’s important to note that these methods are not always foolproof, and it may take some time and observation to accurately determine the gender of your Betta fish.
Additionally, young Bettas may not have fully developed fins or behaviors, making it challenging to tell the difference. Observing reproductive organs is not recommended for novice fish owners, as it requires some skill and experience.
Behavior
Caring for a betta fish requires a good understanding of their behavior and needs. A happy and healthy betta will exhibit several characteristics, such as being active and curious in its tank, swimming to the surface when called, and showing interest in food. These behaviors indicate that the fish is content and well-adjusted.
However, it is also important to be aware of signs of stress and boredom in your betta fish. These may include aggressive behavior, fins flared in response to your presence, or increased activity. These behaviors may be caused by a variety of factors, such as a lack of stimulation or a noisy environment.
Hiding is another common behavior in bettas, and it may indicate that the fish is feeling stressed, depressed, or lonely. Bettas are social creatures in the wild, and they often require hiding spots in their tank to feel secure. If your betta fish is hiding a lot, it may be a sign that it needs a more suitable environment or a companion.
Another indication of a betta’s well-being is the presence of a bubble nest. Bettas are known to build these nests as a sign of contentment, and their absence may indicate that the fish is lonely or stressed. However, it is important to note that the absence of a bubble nest alone does not necessarily mean that the fish is unhappy.
It is crucial to ensure that your betta fish is getting the right kind of food, that the water temperature and pH levels are suitable, and that the tank is clean and well-maintained.
Regular inspections and monitoring of your betta fish’s behavior are essential to ensure that it is happy and healthy.
A happy betta will show active and curious behavior, interest in food and a presence of bubble nest, and a stressed betta will hide and show aggressive behavior.
Care
Caring for a betta fish requires a thorough understanding of their specific needs.
One key factor to remember is that betta fish are tropical creatures and require water temperatures between 75-80 degrees with a neutral pH level around 7. To ensure the health of your fish, it is important to keep ammonia and nitrite levels as low as possible, ideally at zero.
As carnivores, betta fish require a protein-rich diet, so it is best to avoid flake food. With proper care, betta fish can live up to 10 years, with the average lifespan being 3-5 years.
Daily inspections are a must as betta fish show clear signs of illness and stress.
To make maintenance easier, it is recommended to purchase a larger tank than necessary. Bettas aren’t very active fish, and if you plan on adding more fish to the tank, extra space is a must.
Setting up the tank correctly is the most crucial aspect of betta fish care, and it is recommended to wait at least two to four weeks before introducing new fish to give them time to adjust to their new home. Remember, their tank is their home, so make it as comfortable as possible for them.
Tank Requirements
Proper care is essential for the health and well-being of these fish, and in this guide, we will discuss the basics of Betta fish care.
Firstly, it is important to have the correct tank size for your Betta fish. A minimum tank size of 5 gallons is recommended, with a 10-gallon tank being the ideal size. Larger tank will provide them with more space to swim, explore, and reduce stress.
The tank should also be equipped with a heater to maintain a consistent water temperature between 76-82°F, and a filter to keep the water clean. Bettas are tropical fish, and they require warm water to thrive.
A heater is crucial for maintaining the optimal temperature, and a filter will help to keep the water clean and clear.
Betta fish can adapt to different water conditions, but it is essential to maintain a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. A pH level that is too high or too low can cause stress and make the Betta more susceptible to disease.
Additionally, it is important to do regular water changes of at least 25% every 2 weeks. This will help to remove any accumulated waste and toxins, and ensure that the water remains clean and clear.
Betta fish are territorial, so it is important to provide them with plenty of hiding places and to only keep one Betta per tank. Bettas are a solitary fish, and they need their own space and territory.
Other fish and tankmates can cause stress and lead to fights. Providing them with plenty of hiding places such as caves, rocks, and plants can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of security. It also gives the Betta a place to retreat when they need some alone time.
Diseases
When it comes to keeping Betta fish, it’s important to be aware of the potential for diseases. While it’s not possible to completely avoid diseases, understanding the common illnesses that can affect Betta fish can help you recognize symptoms and take appropriate action.
Some of the most common diseases to watch out for include:
- Fin Rot, which is characterized by frayed and damaged fins, lethargy, and can be caused by poor water quality or tank mates that nip at fins.
- Ich, which appears as white spots on the fish’s body and causes agitation and rapid breathing. It’s highly contagious and should be treated immediately by isolating the affected fish and using medication.
- Cotton Fin Fungus, which is characterized by white cotton-like growth on the fins and body and should be treated by isolating the fish and using antifungal medication.
- Bacterial infections, which can cause red, inflamed scales and cloudy eyes.
- Ammonia poisoning, which can cause lethargy, rapid breathing and red, burned-looking gills.
To determine if your Betta fish is healthy, look for signs such as a good appetite, vibrant colors, active movement, healthy fins, building a bubble nest and interacting with you at the surface.
If you notice any abnormal swimming, marks or growths on the body, or a lack of energy, your fish may be sick and should be treated accordingly.
Signs that your Betta fish may not be feeling well include:
- Loss of interest in food
- Lethargy and a dip in energy levels and activity
- Fins and tail that have lost their shape or appear bent or withered
- Unusual swimming habits
- Any unusual marks, bumps, or damage on the body
- A lack of their usual vibrant colors
Tank Mates
When considering which fish to keep as tank mates for your Betta fish, it’s crucial to keep in mind that not every fish is compatible. Fish that are brightly colored, have long fins or are known to be aggressive are not suitable for male Bettas. While female Bettas are less aggressive than males, they can still be territorial in some cases.
Here are some fish that make good tank mates for Bettas:
- Tetras (neon, amber)
- Corydoras (albino, bronze, and panda)
- Cherry barbs
- Mystery snails
- Ghost shrimp
- Feeder guppies (not fancy guppies, as male Bettas may mistake them for other males and attack)
- Harlequin rasboras
It’s important to ensure that you have a large enough tank for all of your fish. As a general rule, for every inch of fish added, the tank will need an additional gallon of water. For example, a fish that measures two inches, plus a Betta fish, will require a minimum of 7 gallons of water, preferably more.
How many Betta fish can I keep together?
When it comes to keeping Betta fish, it’s important to understand their territorial nature and social behavior. Male Betta fish are known to be aggressive and territorial, and it’s not recommended to keep them in the same tank as other male Bettas. This can lead to fights that can cause injury or death.
However, this doesn’t mean that keeping other fish with a male Betta is impossible. There are certain types of fish that can coexist with male Betta fish, but there are certain criteria that the tank mates must meet.
Avoiding overly bright colors or colors that resemble another Betta. These types of fish can intimidate a Betta and cause aggression.
Providing enough space for each fish. Betta fish are solitary creatures and require their own personal swimming space. Aim for at least 5 gallons of space per Betta.
Avoiding fish that nibble. Betta fish have delicate fins, and nibbling can cause injury and stress.
It’s also important to note that every Betta fish has its own personality, so knowing your Betta before introducing other fish is a good idea. If your Betta show signs of aggression, it’s best to keep it alone, but if it don’t, you can experiment with other species.
On the other hand, Female Betta fish are less territorial and prefer to establish a sorority. This is why it’s recommended to keep 3-5 female Betta fish together in the same aquarium if you have enough space for them.
It’s essential to keep in mind that each Betta fish has its unique personality, and it’s essential to observe their behavior before adding them to the tank.
Diet
When it comes to feeding your Betta fish, it’s important to provide a diet that is high in protein and varied. Betta fish are carnivores by nature, and their natural diet consists of small insects and insect larvae. To mimic this diet, you can use high-protein pellets or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms.
A betta-specific floating pellet can be used as a daily food source, as it allows the fish to feed on the surface. Additionally, you can offer your Betta fish an occasional treat with foods like brine shrimp, krill, shrimp, and bloodworms.
While live food can be exciting to watch and an occasional treat for your Betta, it’s generally recommended to stick to frozen or freeze-dried foods, as there is a higher risk of parasite outbreak with live food.
It’s important to be mindful of overfeeding your Betta fish. Their stomach is no bigger than one of their eyeballs, so one feeding per day is more than enough.
Just 2 or 3 betta fish pellets can be sufficient to keep them satisfied. If you feel like they need more, you can feed them twice a day, but be careful not to overfeed.
It’s important to observe how much food your Betta fish is actively eating and adjust the amount accordingly. Any uneaten food will build up at the bottom of the tank and pollute the water, so it’s vital to keep an eye on it and only feed as much as they can eat.
Breeding
To set up a breeding tank for bettas, it is important to have a slightly larger aquarium, ideally around 10 gallons in size. The breeding tank should not have any substrate, but should have plenty of hiding places in the form of leafy plants.
Additionally, you will want to provide something at the water’s surface, such as a plant with broad leaves or a small piece of Styrofoam, on which the male betta can build his bubble nest before mating. The bubble nest is crucial as it protects the fry.
Betta fish require privacy during mating, so it is important to select a quiet area for the breeding tank, away from other fish. The tank should also be in an area that does not receive too much light. The water in the tank should be around five inches deep and at a temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit, with a small heater installed to maintain this temperature.
A filter can help keep the breeding tank clean, but it should have a gentle flow to avoid damaging the bubble nest. It is also important to choose a filter with a fine intake to prevent the fry from being pulled in.
The key to successfully breeding bettas is selecting a healthy pair of fish. It is ideal to purchase bettas from a reputable breeder to ensure that they are between four months and one year old.
Bettas over 14 months old may not breed successfully. The breeding pair should also be at the peak of health, without any deformities, injuries, or signs of disease.
Before adding the bettas to the breeding tank, it is important to ensure that the tank is fully cycled to prevent chemical spikes that could harm the fish. The environment in the breeding tank should also be ideal for constructing a lasting bubble nest and hatching eggs. To achieve this, the air at the top of the tank should be quite humid, which can be achieved by covering the tank’s top with a large piece of plastic wrap.
In addition to conditioning the breeding tank, it is also important to condition the bettas for breeding. Both the male and female bettas should be conditioned for about two weeks before introducing them to the breeding tank.
To condition the fish, they should be fed rich, meaty foods such as bloodworms, tubifex worms, or daphnia. These foods can be frozen or freeze-dried, but live foods offer better nutrition. The bettas should be fed between two and four times a day, but only small amounts should be given during each feeding.
When introducing the female to the breeding tank, it is important to keep her separated from the male until she is ready to breed. Careful monitoring of the breeding pair and the fry is essential to ensure that all the fish remain healthy and safe. Overall, breeding bettas requires attention to detail and a commitment to providing the perfect conditions for the fish to thrive and successfully reproduce.
In conclusion
Caring for a Betta fish is not just about providing food and water, it also involves creating a suitable environment for them to thrive. This includes using the right products to keep the aquarium clean and healthy.
By following the information in this Betta fish care guide, you will have all the necessary tools and knowledge to create a thriving environment for your Betta fish.
If you have any doubts or concerns about caring for your Betta fish, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. I am here to help and provide guidance to my readers. I am always happy to answer any questions you may have and provide advice on how to best care for your Betta fish.
