Betta-Plakat 4

Betta (Betta splendens) — Description

• Also called Siamese Fighting Fish

• Native to slow, warm waters in Southeast Asia

• Adult size: 2.5–3 inches

• Lifespan: 3–5 years (sometimes longer with good care)

• Highly intelligent and interactive

• Territorial toward other bettas

• Labyrinth fish (breathes air from the surface)

• Males have long fins; females shorter and rounder

Betta Care (Bullet Guide)

Tank

• Minimum 5 gallons

• Lid required (jumpers)

• Low-flow filter

Water

• Temp: 78–80°F (25.5–26.5°C)

• Heater required

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0

• Nitrate: <20 ppm

• Weekly 20–30% water changes

Setup

• Live or silk plants preferred

• Smooth décor only (fins tear easily)

• Floating plants help reduce stress

• Open swimming space + hides

Feeding

• High-quality betta pellets as staple

• 2–4 pellets, 1–2× daily

• Frozen/live foods as treats (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms)

• Fast 1 day per week

Tankmates

• Best kept alone

• Possible: nerite snails, some shrimp

• Avoid other bettas and fin-nippers

Behavior & Health

• Curious, recognizes owners

• Bubble nests = normal

• Signs of stress/illness:

  • Clamped fins

  • Lethargy

  • Bloating

  • Faded color

Maintenance

• Rinse filter media in tank water

• Never replace all media at once

• Test water regularly