Betta Fish (Siamese Fighting Fish)
A bold, colorful freshwater fish that can do well in a properly heated, filtered tank. Bettas are often marketed as easy, but they thrive with stable warm water, gentle filtration, and a simple routine.
tankSize
20L (5 gal) minimum, larger is easier
careLevel
Beginner (with proper setup)
temperature
25 to 27C
temperament
Territorial (males)
diet
High-protein pellets plus occasional frozen/live foods
lifespan
3 to 5 years (sometimes longer)
aloneOrCommunity
Often best solo (male)
weeklyMaintenance
Partial water changes and basic cleaning
Best for
- People who want a single pet fish with personality
- Homes that can keep a small tank heated and filtered
- First-time fish keepers willing to learn the basics of cycling and water testing
- Small spaces, when a proper tank setup is possible
Not ideal for
- Unheated bowls or tiny tanks
- People who want a very low-effort pet
- Community tanks without research on compatible tank mates
- Homes that cannot do weekly maintenance
Temperament
- Curious and interactive
- Can be territorial, especially male bettas
- Often learns your routine and will come to the front during feeding
Daily routine
feeding: Feed small portions once or twice daily. Avoid overfeeding.
check: Quick daily check: temperature, filter flow, and fish behavior.
enrichment: Provide plants, hiding spots, and gentle water flow.
Living fit
smallHome: A good fit if you can keep the tank in a stable, quiet spot away from drafts and direct sun.
kids: Works well with supervision and a simple care routine.
firstTimeOwner: A good first fish if you commit to cycling, water testing, and weekly maintenance.
Health notes
- Stable warm water and clean water are the best prevention.
- Watch for clamped fins, white spots, lethargy, or appetite changes.
- Quarantine new fish and plants when possible to reduce disease risk.
Cost and time
time: Low daily time, but requires weekly maintenance and consistent monitoring.
cost: Setup costs are higher than expected (tank, heater, filter, test kit), then ongoing costs are moderate.
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