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
