Betta
Betta splendens · Osphronemidae
Also known as Siamese fighting fish, Betta splendens
Beginner
A labyrinth fish that breathes air and needs warmth, calm water and no other bettas in sight.
In short: A betta needs at least 20 L (5 US gal), water at 24–30 °C (75–86 °F) and pH 6–7.5. It is aggressive, usually kept singly, and rated beginner to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 20 L (5 US gal)
- Temperature
- 24–30 °C (75–86 °F)
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Adult size
- 6 cm (2.4 in)
- Group size
- 1+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 20 L (5 US gal)
- Temperature
- 24–30 °C (75–86 °F)
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Hardness
- 2–15 dGH
- Lifespan
- 2–5 years
- Diet
- Carnivore — betta pellets, frozen bloodworm, daphnia.
- Care level
- Beginner
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Rice paddies and shallow marshes
- Natural conditions
- Warm, still, shallow, plant-filled water.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Aggressive
- Minimum group
- 1 fish
- Swims
- Top
- Good tank mates
- CorydorasHarlequin rasboraNerite snailKuhli loach
- Avoid
- Another bettaGuppyTiger barbCherry shrimp
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Intermediate
- Sexing
- Males have longer fins and stronger colour; females show an ovipositor spot.
- Notes
- Bubble-nester; the pair must be separated immediately after spawning.
- Common ailments
- Fin rotVelvetSwim bladder issuesChilling in unheated bowls
Will it fit your tank?
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- Check the betta with your other fish in the stocking checker
