🐟 Betta Fish (Betta splendens)

The Betta Fish, also known as the Siamese Fighting Fish, is one of the most popular and recognizable freshwater aquarium fish. Known for their stunning flowing fins and vibrant colors, bettas are intelligent fish with big personalities that can recognize their owners and even learn tricks.

📋 Quick Facts

⚠️ Important Considerations

• Never house males together - Will fight to the death
• Need heated tanks - Tropical fish, not goldfish bowls
• Labyrinth breathers - Need surface access for air
• Fin nippers - Avoid housing with nippy fish

🏠 Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: 5 gallons minimum (larger is better)
• Heater: Required - they need warm water
• Filter: Gentle flow - strong currents stress them
• Plants: Love live or silk plants for resting
• Lid: Required - bettas can jump

Water Parameters

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

Carnivores that need protein-rich foods.

• Betta pellets - High quality, staple diet
• Frozen bloodworms - Treat, 1-2x weekly
• Frozen brine shrimp - Variety
• Daphnia - Helps with digestion

Feed 2-3 pellets twice daily. Fast one day per week to prevent bloating.

🐟 Compatibility

Good Tankmates

• Corydoras catfish
• Kuhli loaches
• Snails (Nerite, Mystery)
• Shrimp (Amano, Ghost) - may be eaten
• Harlequin Rasboras

Avoid

• Other male bettas - Will fight
• Fin nippers - Tiger barbs, serpae tetras
• Colorful/long-finned fish - May be mistaken for rivals
• Gouramis - Related species, may fight

🏥 Common Health Issues

• Fin rot - Usually from poor water quality
• Swim bladder disease - Often from overfeeding
• Ich - White spots, raise temp and treat
• Velvet - Gold dust appearance

💡 Tips for Success

• Never use bowls - 5 gallon heated tank minimum
• Provide hiding spots and resting places near surface
• Avoid plastic plants that can tear fins
• Keep water warm and clean
• Feed high-quality foods in small amounts

📚 Summary

Bettas are beautiful, personable fish that deserve proper care beyond the tiny cups they're sold in. With a heated, filtered tank of at least 5 gallons, quality food, and clean water, your betta can live a healthy 3-5 years and show off its stunning colors and personality.