Basics of Caring for Your Betta Fish

Betta fish are truly one of if not the most beautiful fish in the aquarium industry, and they are also highly intelligent. They have been known to recognize their owners, and they can even learn how to do some basic tricks. Before you buy one or more betta fish, you should understand how to take care of them properly.

Purchase the Right Supplies and Equipment

It’s vital to start right away with the right fish tank supplies. While you can house betta fish in a one-gallon bowl, an aquarium with a filter of at least 2.5 gallons is recommended. You’ll also need a thermometer to check the temperature of the water and the fish’s food. You may also want to consider adding faux plants or driftwood to the container as decorations.

Set Up the Tank Properly

The optimal water temperature for betta fish is somewhere between 77ºF and 82ºF, so be careful to avoid placing the container in a location that could significantly alter this temperature, such as near an air conditioner or in direct sunlight.

Don’t use ordinary tap water in the tank, as it may include contaminants that can harm the fish. Instead, use filtered water or water specifically formulated for betta fish.

You’ll get your betta fish from the store in either a plastic bag or a cup, and it’s important not to simply dump the fish into your tank when you get home (by the way, Aquatic Warehouse is famous for its huge selection of exotic and standard bettas). Instead, acclimate the fish by adding a very small amount of aquarium water to the bag while the bag is resting in something that helps it stand upright. Dripping water for 20 minutes is best. You’re acclimating the fish to a change in water chemistry, not temperature.

Change the Water and Clean the Tank

Even though betta fish are pretty tough compared to most freshwater fish, they will be much more content and live longer in an aquarium that has a good filter so they don’t have to spend most of their energy gasping for air at the surface. You still need to change 20-30 percent of the water every week. Also, you should never change all the water at once.

Provide the Right Food

You should be careful not to overfeed your betta fish. Feed them daily, but give them only what they can eat in a couple of minutes. In spite of what many people think, betta fish don’t eat plants. Instead, feed them pellets specifically made for betta fish. As a special treat, you can also occasionally feed them worms or brine shrimp, but make sure you rinse them in a net with tap water first.

Select the Right Tank Mates

It’s not a good idea to put two male betta fish in the same container, as they’re likely to try to kill each other. Multiple female betta fish are also known to attack each other on occasion. Goldfish and other colorful fish don’t make good neighbors with betta fish, either. An ottocinclus algae eater is usually a good bet or small cory cats, but it depends on the personality of your betta. Bettas are like people in that way.

Whether you’re a veteran betta lover or just bringing your first one home, it’s always good to be aware of the best ways to keep them happy and healthy. The knowledgeable experts at Aquatic Warehouse can answer all of your questions and make sure you have any freshwater aquarium supplies you need. Drop by our store in Kearny Mesa or call us today at 858-467-9297.