Water Parameters
- Temperature: 24–28°C
- pH: 6.5–7.8
- Stable, heated water
- Ammonia and nitrite: 0 ppm
- Regular partial water changes
Betta splendens
Freshwater fish
Betta splendens
Betta splendens
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Overview
A striking fish with a strong personality.
Betta splendens are freshwater labyrinth fish known for their vivid colours, flowing fins and highly individual behaviour.
They can breathe atmospheric air using a specialised labyrinth organ, but they still require clean, heated and properly maintained water.
A well-designed habitat should provide gentle flow, warm stable water, plants, cover, open surface access and comfortable resting places.
- Temperature
- 24–28°C
- pH
- 6.5–7.8
- Adult size
- About 6–7 cm
- Difficulty
- Beginner to intermediate
- Temperament
- Individual-dependent
- Diet
- Carnivorous
- Lifespan
- About 3–5 years
Care
What they need.
Aquarium Setup
- Heated planted aquarium
- Gentle filtration
- Easy access to the surface
- Broad leaves and resting places
- A secure lid
Feeding
Bettas benefit from a varied carnivorous diet including quality betta pellets and suitable frozen or live foods. Feed controlled portions and avoid chronic overfeeding.
Behaviour
Bettas are curious fish and often interact with their surroundings. Temperament can vary considerably between individual fish.
Housing
Bettas should be kept in a properly sized, heated and filtered aquarium rather than a small cup or unheated bowl. Plants and resting areas help create a more suitable environment.
Tank Mates
Compatibility depends on the individual betta, aquarium size and the behaviour of proposed tank mates. Any community setup should be planned carefully and monitored.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions.
Can a betta live in a bowl?
Bettas should be provided with a proper heated and filtered aquarium with stable water quality and enough room to swim, explore and behave naturally.
Do bettas need a heater?
In most homes, yes. Bettas are tropical fish and should be kept at a stable temperature within their suitable range.
Can two male bettas live together?
No. Adult male Betta splendens are territorial and should not normally be housed together in the same aquarium.
Can bettas live with other fish?
Sometimes. Compatibility depends on the individual betta, aquarium size, layout and the species being considered as tank mates.
Why do bettas go to the surface?
Bettas possess a labyrinth organ that allows them to breathe atmospheric air. It is therefore normal for them to regularly visit the water's surface.
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