Betta (Siamese Fishing Fish)

Overview

Common Names: Betta, Siamese fighting fish  

Scientific Name: Betta splendens*  

Adult Size: About 3 inches  

Life Expectancy: Typically 2 to 3 years

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Characteristics

- Family: Belontiidae

- Origin: Native to Cambodia, Thailand, and other parts of Southeast Asia

- Social: Males should not be housed together due to aggression

- Tank Level: All levels of the tank

- Minimum Tank Size: 2 gallons

- Diet: Prefers live foods but can adapt to flakes and frozen options

- Breeding: Egg layer (bubble nest)

- Care Level: Easy to intermediate

- pH: 6.8 to 7.4

- Water Hardness: Up to 20 dGH

- Temperature: 75 to 86°F (24 to 30°C)

Origin and Distribution

Bettas originate from the shallow waters of Southeast Asia, including Thailand (formerly Siam), Indonesia, and surrounding regions. These areas are home to rice paddies, ponds, and slow-moving streams. Over time, bettas have been introduced to other locations, creating non-native populations around the world.

The name "Siamese fighting fish" is a nod to the traditional practice of organized fights between male bettas. While such matches still occur in some places, modern hobbyists appreciate these fish for their beauty and unique behavior.

Colors and Markings

Male bettas boast vivid colors and long fins, making them a favorite among aquarium owners. Females tend to have more subdued colors and shorter fins. Captive breeding has led to a wide variety of colors, including white, yellow, red, blue, and even combinations. Their distinctive torpedo-shaped bodies and upturned mouths make them efficient at feeding on the water's surface.

Tankmates

Males cannot be housed together without separation, but multiple females can generally coexist without issues. Bettas can be housed with other peaceful fish as long as the species are small and non-aggressive.

Warning:

Avoid housing male bettas with other fish that have similar body types and long fins to prevent potential conflicts.

Betta Habitat and Care

The debate about keeping bettas in small bowls stems from their need for adequate space and warmth. In their natural habitat, bettas thrive in warm waters, so maintaining a proper water temperature (75 to 86°F) is crucial. Bettas also require access to the water's surface to breathe air, thanks to their labyrinth organ.

For optimal health, bettas should be kept in water that is soft, warm, and slightly acidic. Avoid strong water currents and ensure bettas have access to the water's surface.

Diet and Feeding

Bettas primarily eat insects and insect larvae in the wild, making live foods their ideal diet. However, they can adapt to eating flake foods, freeze-dried, and frozen options such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and glassworms. Feed your betta two to four pellets twice a day and supplement with other food options.

Gender Differences

Males are known for their vibrant colors and flowing fins, while females tend to be smaller with shorter fins. Females also display vertical stripes when ready to mate.

Breeding Bettas

Bettas breed in bubble nests, and a tank of about 10 gallons is typically sufficient. Conditioning the fish with live foods before breeding is advisable. During spawning, the male will create a bubble nest and protect the eggs. Once the fry hatch, the male should be removed to prevent harm to the young.

Further Research

If you're interested in expanding your aquarium, consider researching compatible fish such as black phantom tetras, zebra danios, and tiger barbs.

FAQ

- How long do betta fish live?

Bettas usually live between 2 to 5 years.

- How many bettas should be in a tank? 

Male bettas should be housed alone, while multiple females can coexist peacefully.

- Are bettas easy to care for?

Bettas are relatively low-maintenance but require regular water changes and consistent temperatures for optimal health.