Betta Fish Care Guide

The Betta fish (Betta splendens) is one of the most iconic and rewarding freshwater fish you can keep. Known for their spectacular finnage and bold personalities, Bettas thrive when given the right conditions — and suffer when they don't. This guide covers everything you need to know.

Tank Size & Setup

Contrary to popular belief, Bettas need more than a tiny bowl. A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended to maintain stable water parameters and allow for enrichment. A longer tank is preferable over a tall one, as Bettas are surface breathers.

• Substrate: fine sand or smooth gravel
• Plants: live plants like java fern, anubias, or hornwort provide cover and reduce stress
• Decorations: avoid sharp edges that can tear fins
• Lid: essential — Bettas are jumpers

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: under 20 ppm

Use a reliable test kit to monitor your water — the API Master Test Kit available in our Aquarium Supplies collection is a trusted choice.

Filtration & Flow

Bettas dislike strong currents. Use a sponge filter or a hang-on-back filter with a baffle to reduce flow. A gentle, cycled filter is essential for maintaining water quality.

Diet

Bettas are carnivores. Feed a varied diet of:

• High-quality Betta pellets (primary diet)
• Frozen or live bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia (2–3x per week)
• Fast one day per week to prevent bloat

Tank Mates

Bettas are best kept solo or with peaceful, non-nippy tank mates. Avoid other Bettas (males especially), fin nippers like tiger barbs, and anything too similar in shape or color. Good companions include:

• Corydoras catfish
• Nerite snails
• Amano shrimp (with caution)
• Small tetras like ember tetras

Common Health Issues

• Fin rot: caused by poor water quality; treat with clean water and antibiotics if severe
• Ich: white spot disease; treat with heat and medication
• Bloat/Dropsy: often caused by overfeeding or infection

Shop Freshwater Fish at Concrete Blonde Aquatics

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