Description

Betta splendens (Siamese Fighting Fish)

Overview

Betta splendens, commonly known as the Siamese Fighting Fish or Betta, is a vibrant, freshwater fish native to the slow-moving waters of Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. Renowned for its striking colours and flowing fins, particularly in males, this labyrinth fish can breathe air from the surface, making it adaptable to low-oxygen environments. Growing to 6–7.5 cm, Bettas are popular among aquarists but require specific care due to their territorial nature. They are suitable for beginners with proper setup and maintenance.

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Care Requirements

Tank Size

Minimum: 19 liters for a single Betta; 38 liters or larger preferred for better water stability and enrichment.

Larger tanks reduce stress and allow for decor and plants. Avoid small bowls or vases, as they cause poor health and shortened lifespan.

Water Parameters

Temperature: 24°C–28°C, ideally 25°C–27°C. Use a heater to maintain stable warmth.
pH: 6.5–7.5, slightly acidic to neutral preferred.
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (5–15 dH).
Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm; Nitrate: Keep below 20 mg/L.
Use a water conditioner to remove chlorine and chloramine.

Tank Setup

Substrate: Smooth gravel or sand to prevent fin damage; bare-bottom tanks are also suitable for easy cleaning.
Plants: Live or silk plants (e.g., Java fern, Anubias, Amazon sword, or floating plants like water sprite) for cover and resting spots. Avoid sharp plastic plants that tear fins.
Decor: Caves, driftwood, or Betta logs provide hiding spots. Ensure all decor has smooth edges.
Filtration: Gentle filter (e.g., sponge or adjustable low-flow filter) to avoid strong currents that stress Bettas. Baffle filters if flow is too strong.
Lighting: Low to moderate lighting; provide a day/night cycle (8–12 hours light) to mimic natural conditions.
Surface Access: Ensure open access to the surface for air-breathing via their labyrinth organ.

Maintenance

Water Changes:

- 20 litre tank: 25%–50% weekly.
- 40 + litre tank: 20%–30% weekly or 30%–50% biweekly, depending on bioload.

Use a siphon to remove debris and match new water temperature/parameters.
Testing: Monitor ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and temperature weekly with a test kit.
Cleaning: Vacuum substrate lightly during water changes; clean filter media in tank water monthly to preserve bacteria. Wipe algae from glass as needed.
Feeding Control: Remove uneaten food within 5 minutes to prevent water fouling.
Plant/Decor Care: Rinse plants or decor in tank water if algae-covered; trim live plants to maintain aesthetics.

Diet

Natural Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on insects, larvae, and small crustaceans in the wild.

Aquarium Diet:

Staple Foods: High-quality Betta-specific pellets (e.g., those with fish meal or insect protein as primary ingredients).
Live/Frozen Foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, Daphnia, or mosquito larvae as treats to enhance health and colour (1–2 times weekly).
Avoid: Overuse of freeze-dried foods, as they can cause bloating; soak if used.
Feeding Frequency: 2–4 small pellets or equivalent 1–2 times daily. Fast one day per week to prevent digestive issues.
Variety: Rotate foods to ensure balanced nutrition and avoid picky eating habits.

Behaviour and Compatibility

Behaviour

Territorial: Males are highly aggressive, especially toward other males or fish resembling them (e.g., bright colours, long fins). Females are less aggressive but can be territorial.
Activity: Curious and interactive, often flaring gills/fins to display or explore. They rest on plants or decor near the surface, sometimes building bubble nests.
Solitary Preference: Best kept alone in most cases due to aggression, though some tolerate specific tankmates in larger tanks.

Compatibility

Ideal Tankmates (in 40+ litre tanks): Peaceful, non-competitive species like Kuhli loaches, Corydoras catfish, or small tetras (e.g., Neon Tetra).
Avoid: Other male Bettas, bright/long-finned fish (e.g., guppies), aggressive fish (e.g., barbs), or fin-nippers.
Never house multiple male Bettas together unless separated by dividers.
Female Bettas: Can be kept in sororities (5+ females in 75 + litre tanks with ample hiding spots), but monitor for aggression. Introduce females simultaneously to reduce hierarchy disputes.
Observation: Monitor tankmates closely; remove any fish showing stress or nipping. Each Betta’s personality varies, affecting compatibility.
Sexual Dimorphism: Males have long, flowing fins and vibrant colours; females have shorter fins and duller hues (though some females, like Plakats, may be colourful).

Breeding Behaviour

Breeding Behaviour: Bubble-nest builders; males construct surface nests and care for eggs until hatching. Breeding is complex and requires preparation.