Betta fish are one of the most popular aquarium pets around. Their vibrant colors, elegant swimming patterns, and feisty personalities are loved by new and seasoned aquarium enthusiasts. If you ever wanted to get a betta or have been pondering setting up an aquarium, this comprehensively simple guide covers it all.
Betta Fish And Why They Are So Special
Bettas are a species of freshwater fish that were first found in Southeast Asia. They are known as Siamese fighting fish due to their territorial behavior. In the wild, they are found in shallow waters like rice fields, ponds, roadside ditches, and slow streams. These waters can occasionally be short on oxygen, and the betta evolved a special breathing organ: the labyrinth organ. It aids them when they gulp air directly from the surface, which is one way in which they can survive conditions that would kill other fish.
The various colors of the modern Betta can include bright red, electric blue, deep purple, metallic green, pure white, and even pastel pink, along with marble patterns and koi in some cases. Their fins are also various shapes, including disks, half moons, crown tails, delta/ Veil tails, double tails, and plakats. And thanks to this diversity, there is a betta for every taste.
Why People Love Keeping Bettas
Betta fish are more than just nice to look at. They’ve also got personality. Most betta owners will observe that their betta follows a finger or comes to them during feeding. Some will even learn to take food from your fingers. Bettas are curious and playful, and enjoyable to watch, plus they won’t knock you out with a vinyl cushion. They’re also small enough to fit in tight places and don’t require a huge tank.
Here are common reasons why people select bettas:
They are small and easily controllable.
They display distinct and expressive behaviors.
They come in so many pretty colors.
They can be solitary fish and don’t need a group of the same kind to thrive.
They learn routines, and they will usually respond to the efforts made by their owner.
For a pet that is hands-on but fairly relaxed, bettas are hard to beat.
Tanks & Set-Up for a Happy Betta
Bettas may be hardy, but they still require the right environment. A tiny cup or bowl just doesn’t cut it for them. Here are the betta basics every betta needs.
Proper Tank Size
They should be kept in a tank of at least 5 gallons. A larger tank provides more room for swimming and helps to keep the water stable. Tanks that are not large enough can become dirty, and the water will need to be cleaned often, Scroggins said.
Warm Water
Bettas are tropical fish. In order to remain active and healthy, they require warm water. The best temperature is from 24 to 28 degrees Celsius. Except for warm climates, a heater is nearly always required.
Clean and Stable Water
Add water conditioner to the tap water in order to get rid of chlorines and other toxic substances. A mild filter is always good, but ensure water flow is not too heavy. Bettas like still water because their fins make strong currents exhausting for them.
Safe Decorations and Plants
Bettas like to have little caves to wiggle into and explore. Pile caves, plants, stones, or live rock so the aquarium looks like its natural habitat. Anything sharp or rough should be avoided, as it will tear their delicate fins.
A Tank Lid
Bettas can jump. A lid keeps them safe. Just ensure there is airspace above the water for them to break the surface.
Feeding a Betta the Right Way
Bettas are carnivores. In the wild, they feed on insects and small organisms. The best diet is one that consists of high-quality betta pellets or flakes with sufficient protein content. You can also feed them treats such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia. These can be frozen or live.
Feed them (in small amounts) once or twice per day. Overfeeding is a common mistake. When they’re done, any uneaten food will sink to the bottom and foul the water — and that can make your betta sick. If your betta’s bulging, try skipping a feeding and letting the system rest.
Common Mistakes People Make
Bettas are a very popular fish , and many people purchase them, ignorant of their real requirements. Here are mistakes to avoid:
Keeping the fish in one of those small bowls or cups.
Not using a heater.
Keeping soiled water stagnant for too long.
Compounded with heavy filters (that also stress the fish).
Overfeeding/allowing bad feed.
Placing two male bettas together.
With sharp decorations that tear fins.
By avoiding these mistakes, you can add years to how long your betta lives, and both of you will be happier.
Understanding Betta Behavior
Bettas express emotions through body language and color changes. A healthy betta is strong, active, and inquisitive. Stress Symptoms: How Do You Know if Your Betta is Stressed? An unhappy betta will hide too much, clamp its fins, or become pale, and may not eat.
Here are a few common betta behaviors and what they are typically indicative of:
Flaring fins: A display of dominance or a way to investigate.
Bubble nests: The betta is comfortable. When they feel secure, male bettas construct these nests.
Slow motion: Could mean the water is too cold, or that it’s sick.
Resting frequently: OK as long as the fish continues to respond and swim normally.
Like any living creature, bettas need both stimulation and rest.
How Long Betta Fish Live
With proper care, a betta fish can live three to five years. Some even live longer. Good tank, clean water, stable temperature, and good diet are the keys to a long, healthy life.
Conclusion
Yes. Bettas are one of the most beginner-friendly fish, as they tend to be hardy and low-maintenance. But beginners should not forget that the betta can’t be left alone without care. They are not an ornament, and you cannot keep them in little caddies. Properly guided, beginners do well with bettas and are often very satisfied with their fish.
FAQs About Betta Fish
If female and male bettas live together?
Only during short breeding periods. If not, they need to be kept separate since they can become aggressive.
Do bettas need a filter?
A gentle filter is helpful because it helps keep the water clean, but the flow should be slow.
How frequently should the change of water be changed?
Instead, change 20-30% of the water each week for a happy, stable aquarium.
Are bettas compatible with other fish?
A few bettas will, but it’s all down to personality. Perhaps peaceful tank mates like snails or tiny, docile fish.
Why is my betta not eating?
The cause could be because of stress, cold water, bad water quality, or sickness. Check the tank conditions first.
