Betta Fish
Overview
Betta fish are well-known for their stunning, flowing fins and vibrant colors. Males are particularly aggressive towards other males of their species, which is how they got the name "Siamese Fighting Fish." Females have shorter fins and are generally less aggressive. They are labyrinth fish, meaning they have a special organ that allows them to breathe air from the water's surface, in addition to using their gills. Origin: Southeast Asia : Thailand (Siam): This is their primary native origin, and they were first domesticated here for fighting purposes, which is why they are often called Siamese Fighting Fish.
Origin: Southeast Asia
Family: Osphronemidae
Physical Characteristics
Habitat Requirements
Care and Feeding
A high-quality Betta pellet or flake food should be the staple of their diet. Supplement with frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia to provide a varied diet and stimulate their hunting instincts.
Breeding
Breeding Difficulty: Easy
Males build a bubble nest at the water's surface to attract a female. After spawning, the male will carefully collect the eggs and place them in the bubble nest. The female should be removed after spawning, as the male will become aggressive towards her. The male will continue to guard and care for the eggs until they hatch.
Compatibility
Aggressive
Male Bettas should not be housed together, as they will fight. They can be housed with other peaceful, non-fin-nipping fish in a larger tank (20+ gallons). Good tank mates include certain types of tetras, Rasboras, and Corydoras.