Also known as the Siamese fighting fish, the betta fish is known for its aggressive and territorial demeanor. In fact, in some cases, when enclosed in small areas together, betta fish will literally fight each other to the death.
In truth, these fish are sensitive and thus demand extra care. Wondering how to care for betta fish? Here’s everything you need to know about betta fish management.
Get the Water Right
Bettas are highly affected by water temperature and balance. As such, when taking care of a betta fish, you have to get their water right.
These fish thrive in pH balances between 6.8 and 7.5. While they can live in colder waters, they’re ideally active in temperatures of between 76 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
You can keep the water temperature at this range by using a fish bowl heater. To adjust the pH balance, check out this guide.
Buy the Right Size Betta Fish Bowl
When you see betta fish in stores, you might find them in extremely small bowls. Yes, betta fish can live in bowls of this size. However, they can’t thrive in them.
Ideally, your betta fish bowl will possess around 5 gallons of water space. This provides ample room for the betta to move and also keeps water quality at a reasonable level.
Note: there’s no betta fish tank setup that’s too big. Just ensure that yours has at least 5 gallons of space in which to swim.
Also, betta fish like to jump. To ensure that yours stays in its bowl, put a lid on it.
Decorate the Bowl
Betta fish don’t like an empty bowl. They like to have some decor around. They also like to have something to lean on or hide in from time to time.
This is why you should decorate your betta fish bowl. You should put pebbles at the bottom of the bowl and introduce some caves or mounds as well. You could also put stimulating toys in the bowl, such as ping pong balls and the like.
Need help with this part of the process? Learn more about aquascaping now!
Be Careful of Putting Them Amongst Other Fish
As was noted, betta fish are highly territorial. Because of this, they need their own space.
Now, this doesn’t mean that you can’t keep bettas in the same tank as other fish. However, if you do, you should make sure that the tank possesses at least 15 gallons of space.
Also, you should be cognizant of the types of fish you house with your betta. You need to choose non-aggressive fish like tetras, rasboras, and calm barbs.
Feed Them Sparingly
Betta fish are highly susceptible to dirty water. As such, you should only feed them sparingly. Use betta fish food, specifically, and offer it only once a day.
If it takes more than 2 minutes for your fish to eat it, lessen the offering at the next feeding.
And That’s How to Care for Betta Fish
And that’s it. That’s how to care for betta fish. Put these betta fish tips to good use and your betta should be able to live a happy and healthy life.
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