Betta Fish
We currently do not take in betta fish or any aquatics.
About: Betta fish originally came from Thailand, so they are used to a tropical climate. Their average lifespan is 2-4 years but can easily live up to 10 years with proper care.
Housing: Absolute minimum of 2.5 gallon tank (ideal is 5 gallons or larger). Bettas need to have their water conditioned (no tap water). Tank must have a water filter (absolutely no bowls) but the current should not be too strong as bettas aren't strong swimmers. Do not fill their tank all the way up with water, allow 1-2 inches of water surface. Always have a secure lid as bettas can jump.
Water Levels:
Lighting: Avoid direct sunlight. Bettas need both artificial and natural light. It is best to keep them on a schedule (light during the day, dark at night).
Toys/Enrichment: Bettas need plants and hiding places to feel safe. It is best to mimic their natural environment to reduce stress. Live plants are the most beneficial.
Diet: Bettas are carnivores. They are surface feeders who eat a floating pelleted diet designed for bettas. Bettas can be picky eaters; some prefer certain brands. Only feed 2-4 pellets per day (1-2 times a day). Overfeeding can cause many health problems. Providing a variety in their diet is important.
NEVER PUT TWO MALES TOGETHER or A MALE AND A FEMALE TOGETHER.
Safe Fishy Friends: Please keep in mind that not all bettas do well with any friends. But here is a list of some of our favorite cagemates: Mystery snails, Ghost shrimp, Feeder guppies, Cory catfish, Harlequin Rasbora, African dwarf frog, Neon tetras, Ember tetras, Clown plecos, Kuhli loach, Marimo moss balls.
Cleaning/Maintenance: Depending on the size of your tank, the smaller the tank, the more frequent you have to do water changes. For a 5-gal tank, you will need to do 1-2 water cycles per week. (Each water cycle, remove 25% of the water and replace). For 5-gal, 100% water change will need to be done monthly. Always remember to add water condition when adding new water to tank. Never clean a tank or the accessories/decorations with soap.
Housing: Absolute minimum of 2.5 gallon tank (ideal is 5 gallons or larger). Bettas need to have their water conditioned (no tap water). Tank must have a water filter (absolutely no bowls) but the current should not be too strong as bettas aren't strong swimmers. Do not fill their tank all the way up with water, allow 1-2 inches of water surface. Always have a secure lid as bettas can jump.
Water Levels:
- PH range of 6.5 - 7.5
- Ammonia ideally zero parts per million (ppm)
- Nitrate less than 40 ppm
- Nitrite ideally zero ppm
Lighting: Avoid direct sunlight. Bettas need both artificial and natural light. It is best to keep them on a schedule (light during the day, dark at night).
Toys/Enrichment: Bettas need plants and hiding places to feel safe. It is best to mimic their natural environment to reduce stress. Live plants are the most beneficial.
Diet: Bettas are carnivores. They are surface feeders who eat a floating pelleted diet designed for bettas. Bettas can be picky eaters; some prefer certain brands. Only feed 2-4 pellets per day (1-2 times a day). Overfeeding can cause many health problems. Providing a variety in their diet is important.
- Betta pellets
- Bloodworms
- Brine shrimp
NEVER PUT TWO MALES TOGETHER or A MALE AND A FEMALE TOGETHER.
Safe Fishy Friends: Please keep in mind that not all bettas do well with any friends. But here is a list of some of our favorite cagemates: Mystery snails, Ghost shrimp, Feeder guppies, Cory catfish, Harlequin Rasbora, African dwarf frog, Neon tetras, Ember tetras, Clown plecos, Kuhli loach, Marimo moss balls.
Cleaning/Maintenance: Depending on the size of your tank, the smaller the tank, the more frequent you have to do water changes. For a 5-gal tank, you will need to do 1-2 water cycles per week. (Each water cycle, remove 25% of the water and replace). For 5-gal, 100% water change will need to be done monthly. Always remember to add water condition when adding new water to tank. Never clean a tank or the accessories/decorations with soap.
Resources/References:
- Japanese Fighting Fish - Betta Fish Care
- Betta Fish - Betta Fish Care
- Aquatic Veterinary Services - Standard Care of Betta Fish
- Fish Keeping World - The Complete Betta Fish Care Guide
Disclaimer: Any information posted on Lala's Playhouse and Rescue's website is for general information purposes only and should not be used as medical advice, medical opinion, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information given is not to be substituted for medical attention. Always seek licensed veterinary care for your pet's health and treatment. All information on this website is given "as-is." Lala's Playhouse and Rescue is not liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, punitive, or consequential damages of any kind whatsoever with respect to the use of this website. You agree that you are using this website solely at your own risk.
