🐟 Betta Fish Overview
Scientific Name: Betta splendens
Common Names: Siamese Fighting Fish, Betta
Origin: Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos
Size: ~2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm)
Lifespan: 2–5 years (with proper care)
Temperament: Territorial (especially males); curious and interactive
Tank Level: Top to mid-water
🌈 Appearance:
Bettas are among the most colorful freshwater fish.
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Males: Long, flowing fins and bold colors
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Females: Shorter fins, slightly smaller, but still vibrant (especially modern fancy strains like Koi, Candy, and Galaxy)
Common color morphs: Halfmoon, Crowntail, Veiltail, Plakat, Koi, Candy, Galaxy, Mustard Gas, and more.
🏠 Tank Requirements:
| Feature |
Recommendation |
| Tank Size |
5+ gallons (minimum) |
| Water Temp. |
76–82°F (24–28°C) |
| pH |
6.5–7.5 |
| Hardness |
4–12 dGH |
| Filtration |
Sponge filter or gentle flow |
| Lighting |
Moderate; floating plants help reduce glare |
| Décor |
Live or silk plants, hides, caves, leaf litter, driftwood |
| Substrate |
Sand or smooth gravel |
🔒 Lid is essential — Bettas jump!
🍽️ Diet:
Carnivorous. Feed a variety for health and color:
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Staple: High-quality betta pellets (floating or sinking)
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Protein: Frozen/live bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
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Occasional: Mosquito larvae, tubifex worms
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Feed 1–2 times/day in small amounts
Fast them 1 day a week to prevent bloating.
💢 Temperament & Housing:
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Males: Should be kept alone — very territorial
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Females: Can be solo, or in sororities (4–6+ females) in large tanks
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Never house two males together
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Peaceful tankmates possible in larger tanks (see below)
🤝 Compatible Tank Mates (10+ gallons):
❌ Avoid:
🧬 Breeding (Advanced):
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Requires conditioning with live foods
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Male builds bubble nest
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Introduce female briefly—remove after spawning
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Fry require specialized care and tiny live food
⚠️ Health & Common Issues:
| Condition |
Symptoms |
Solution |
| Fin rot |
Ragged fins, black/red edges |
Clean water, API Fin & Body Cure |
| Ich |
White spots |
Raise temp + Ich medication |
| Bloating |
Swollen belly, floaty |
Fasting, peas (rarely), Epsom salt bath |
| Velvet |
Rusty gold dust |
Darkness + copper-based meds |
➡️ Prevent with stable water, good food, and no overcrowding.
🧼 Maintenance Tips:
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Change 25–50% water weekly
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Use water conditioner (dechlorinator)
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Test parameters monthly
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Rinse filter media in tank water (never tap water)
