Live Betta

April 1st, 2008 admin Leave a comment Go to comments

Live Betta

Betta Fish Information - The Basics on What You Need to Care For Your Betta

Bettas are beautiful fish. They can come in a variety of colors such as blue, red, yellow, orange, white, and many combinations of any of those. Knowing what these fish need can be difficult since there's a Lot of misinformation around, some of it even by the pet stores themselves. So, what are the correct basics on what you need to care for your Betta?

1. The first thing that any Betta owner needs to decide on is the fish's home. Bettas, despite popular opinion, do not do best in small containers. Bettas love large, open spaces, and are happier and healthier in such an environment.

A great tank size that many new Betta owners can afford is a 2.5 gallon aquarium. This size allows room for the fish to swim, and space for other things, such as decorations, you decide to include. A 5 gallon tank is another great choice and has room to fit in a filter which allows the tank to be cycled; this cuts down on the amount of Water changes needed.

2. The next thing you should consider buying is a heater. Betta's are tropical fish, and really do best at temperatures between 78 - 82 degrees Fahrenheit. A quality submersible heater isn't hard to find, and should last for years. Bettas kept at room temperature tend to be very boring to watch as they'll generally just stay in one spot and swim very little. Bettas kept in warmer water are much more active and are constantly exploring their home.

3. Another necessity is water conditioner. You can get this at nearly any pet store. Water conditioner removes chlorine from tap water, which is important since chlorine can quickly kill Bettas. Very little is needed at every water change so the bottle can last for a long time.

4. Feeding your Betta can be very easy. A good quality pellet is all you really need. You may also consider supplementing that with frozen or freeze dried bloodworms, live food such as daphnia, and even blanched peas. Several pellets a day is enough, depending on the pellet size. Remember, don't overfeed, as it can cause health problems in your fish.

5. Decorating your Betta's tank is always a fun thing to do. You can use gravel or marbles or even nothing at all on the bottom of the tank. Rocks, bridges, and other ornaments can add interest. If you add fake plants, make sure that they're silk and not plastic, as plastic can very easily tear your fish's delicate fins.

6. Lastly, and the most important, is water changes. If your Betta's home doesn't have a filter and isn't cycled, then 100% water changes are a must. If the tank size is around 2.5 gallons, then weekly changes should be enough. Anything under that and 100% changes twice a week will be necessary. If the tank is cycled, then 25% weekly water changes are sufficient. Without frequent water changes, waste and ammonia can build up which can cause your Betta to become sick from fin rot or another disease. You can largely avoid that with proper water changes.

Betta's are fun fish to keep and are very personable. With the proper basics, your Betta should live a fulfilling life in your care.

About the Author

You saved your Betta's life from the pet store's tiny cup. Now discover how to transform your Betta into the most healthy, happy, and vibrant fish in the world!