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The beauty of the Betta

Big fish in a small pond - or little fish in a small container?

The Siamese fighting fish, or betta, is a vibrantly-colored fish often seen swimming solo in brandy sniffers and ornamental vases in both the office and home. But do these small, aesthetically-pleasing fish bowls provide a healthy environment for the fish? Is the popular betta bachelor in need of a companion or is it better off living alone?

Read on and learn more about this graceful, multi-hued fish, and remember: If work or travel keeps you from home, always choose a professional pet sitter for your pet-sitting needs. You can find your local professional pet sitter on PSI's Pet Sitter Locator.


History

The betta was first discovered in Southeast Asia. Making its home in rice paddies, drainage ditches and the warm flood plains of the region, the betta became accustomed to frequent storm flooding and devastating droughts. The cyclic, drastic changes in its environment helped the fish to adapt - becoming a true labyrinth fish. A labyrinth fish has the unique ability to breathe oxygen directly from the air and also take in oxygen from its gills. As a result, bettas and other labyrinth fish can survive for short periods of time out of water and if needed, can inhale the air around them (provided they stay moist.) This also explains why a betta can sustain itself in stagnant, oxygen-deficient water. Although bettas can tolerate small spaces and poor water quality, they do best in small aquariums (at least two gallons) with regular water changes. The preferred water temperature for a betta is 76-82 degrees F.

What's in a name?

The betta got its name from an ancient clan of warriors, called the "Bettah." The fish were given a combatant name after the fighting fish became popular in the mid-1800s. In fact, the sport became so renowned in Thailand that the former King of Siam had it regulated and taxed! Spectators of the sport based their bets on the bravery of the fish, rather than the damage inflicted by the victor.

Dinner time

Bettas have upturned mouths and primarily feed on the water's surface. A good diet consists of dried bloodworms, brine shrimp or daphnia. Commercial betta food or pellets are best because it combines all three foods, in addition to vitamins and minerals. This improves the betta's brilliant coloring and longevity. It is a common misconception that peace lilies or plant roots grown out of "betta vases" can sustain the fish. Nothing could be farther than the truth! Bettas cannot survive on plant roots and need a diet high in protein and fiber to survive.

Roommate?

Bettas, unlike other species, are not schooling fish and will fight with each other, regardless of gender. Bettas prefer to swim alone and also need a comfortable place to hide. Aquatic caves or dense, planted corners work great in making a betta feel safe. 

Water Quality

When cleaning a betta's tank or bowl, make sure you only take out a third of the water each time and replace it with fresh water. This will gently allow the fish to adjust to the temperature and pH of clean water - while not upsetting the biological balance of the fish's environment. This should be done about every three or four days for small bowls or tanks. If your water has a high level of chlorine in it, you may need to add a drop of declorinator to the tap water before adding it to the tank or bowl. And never use soap or disinfectants to clean off fish ornaments or decorations. This will harm the fish. Plain warm water will work just fine for cleaning these items. You can also use a small turkey baster to siphon debris from the bottom of the tank. This will prevent excessive ammonia and bacteria from building up.

Interesting betta facts

  • Bettas prefer slightly acidic water (pH 6.5 to 7) and warm water. Cold water can suppress the immune system and cause illness.
  • Bettas have several different tail shapes - the most common being the "veil tail." Other tail shapes include the "half-moon," "double tail," "short-finned fighting-style tail" and "crown tail."
  • Bettas normally live 2 - 3 years, but there have been a few cases of bettas living well into their teens. 
  • The betta is known as "plakad" in its native Thailand and has often been referred to as "The Jewel of the Orient."

Comments

Cara

May 9, 2016  |  12:k PM
Cedric jackson:
If they have been in the same tank for about a month and havent been breeding yet then they probably won't becasue usaly if you put a female with a male in the same tank it would take about an hour or two for them to start breeding. It shouldnt take a month.

Diviyan

May 9, 2016  |  4:k AM
Hey guys.I just bought a new betta fish.His name is Sanjay.I had him for like several weeks.He is a veil tail betta and his is doing fine.

Emerly

May 8, 2016  |  9:k PM
Hey guys just got a new Betta fish about a month ago and his name is Ian. He's so pretty and he really likes the things I do according to this website. Just saying

Cedric jackson

May 8, 2016  |  6:k PM
I have a veil tail betta and he's been with me for like 6 months and recently a month back i got him a female he chases her bu times but it seems like they are getting along a little now do you think the will breed?

Cara

May 8, 2016  |  5:k PM
Anastasia:
Is your fish new? If he is its's normal for your new betta to not eat for a few days but if he's not new then he's probably sick.

Cara

May 8, 2016  |  11:k AM
Stacy:
If he starts to really dislike it then i'd take it out but it's not a harm to him. The only reason he's not liking it is either hes not used to it or it's his personallity but theres nothing to worry about.

Stacy

May 7, 2016  |  8:k PM
Hey everyone

I'm new to the betta fish owner world. Wanted to say hi and let you know I got a pretty handsome guy I've named Rule.

Today I got him a gallon tank and a heater for it. He seems to dislike the air filter. Is this normal?

Cara

May 4, 2016  |  9:k AM
Katelyn:
What do you mean by rest on the coral? Do you mean he lays on his side on the coral or is just near it and doesn't move?

Katelyn

May 3, 2016  |  5:k PM
I just got a betta today and ive noticed that he kinda rests him self on the reef i got him every once and a while is that normal?

Cara

May 2, 2016  |  1:k PM
Elizabeth Adams:
What pet store did you get it from? If it's a local owned pet store it sometimes does not say on the cup you got it in, but if its not a local owned pet store like Petsmart ot Petco it should say what breed they are and what gender they are on the cup. And if its from a local owned pet store than my geuss would be to go to the pet store that you got it from and ask them yourself. If no one can answer you should probably search it up on google.

Elizabeth adams

May 1, 2016  |  11:k PM
I have had my betta fish for 8 months and I thought he was a male he's yellow, blue and white but my friend thinks he is a female how do you know if they are male or female ?

Cara

April 30, 2016  |  2:k AM
Andrea:
From my experience, yes fish bowls are fine. Just remember to keep the decorations low. Is your betta small or fully grown? And what type is it??

Emily

April 29, 2016  |  5:k PM
Yes, fish bowls are okay if they still have room for swimming, eating, exploring, and showing off!

Emily

April 29, 2016  |  5:k PM
Yes, fish bowls are okay. Just remember not to flood the bowl with decorations!

Suzie

April 29, 2016  |  5:k PM
Just got an adorable male betta and his name is Blaze. He has an adorable little ducky that he loves.

Suzie

April 29, 2016  |  5:k PM
Just got an adorable male betta and his name is Blaze. He has an adorable little ducky that he loves.

Suzie

April 29, 2016  |  5:k PM
Just got an adorable male betta and his name is Blaze. He has an adorable little ducky that he loves.

Andrea

April 29, 2016  |  5:k PM
So its a small fish bowl okay?

Andrea

April 29, 2016  |  5:k PM
So its a small fish bowl okay?

Jessika

April 25, 2016  |  10:k PM
Lilly, if your fish is not eating, check your water temperature. If the fish is cold he will eat almost nothing and can easuly get sick and die. For about $10 you can get a tiny water heater and make sure his water is just the right temperature.

Cara

April 25, 2016  |  1:k PM
And I'm not saying that the small cups at the pet store are not cruel but the betta seem to be fine in them

Cara

April 25, 2016  |  1:k PM
Angelique:
For my first betta I got her a 1 gallon tank... although she was a baby. But now I have two bettas that share a half gallon tank with of course a divider. But if you think that small cup is cruel at the pet store then maybe get your betta a 2-3 gallon tank. Bur honestly my full grown betta and my baby betta are fine sharing the half gallon tank

Emily

April 22, 2016  |  4:k PM
Angelique:
you are absoloutley right. the little cups they keep them in is cruel, but that cup is for the time being until they are sold. try to get a cube or tank 2-3 gallons or bigger or whatever he/she is confortable with. And BTW, I wish you the best with you and your little friend!

Angelique

April 22, 2016  |  4:k PM
Urrm I want to get a betta and just wanted to know what size tank should I get because the cups they keep them in the petstore is cruel

Lily

April 21, 2016  |  4:k PM
Thank you so much Karen! I will try my hardest to figure everything out! Thanks again for the tips!

Karen

April 21, 2016  |  4:k AM
I was wondering if any of you know of anyone who actually FIGHTS their Bettas? Do people do that? Do they bet on it like dog fights or cock fights? Just curious. I think making any animal, or anything really, fight is awful...and to BET on it, disgusting! I do not care if you think it is "just a Fish", because you are wrong. Bettas are so much more, just like a dog with feelings and a personality.

I also wonder, why something that lives in a yucky environment in the wild, and at times a very HARSH, environment, of Mud and warm gross water, become so BEAUTIFUL and brightly colored, Amazingly colored...? Anyone? Ideas? Thoughts? comments welcomed.
thank you.

Karen

April 21, 2016  |  4:k AM
Lily- has anyone answered your questions yet? And, Is youbbetta eating yet? Whenever that has happened with an intelligent fish like the Betta, I always pulled up a chair and talked to them, and then start checking thesituation out. Be observant. Is the water warm enough for him, or is it how he likes it? Is he pressed, maybe his tank is dirty, etc. Do your best to figure it out, it's all you can do, really. Keep offering food, and removit if it's not consumed.
Tatia: sounds like your Betta may have ICK. there are tablets to put in water to help cure that.
Carol. Chee AND Cara, Congratulations!

Carol. Chee

April 20, 2016  |  2:k PM
I have a beta. Named. Blue diamond
Just wanted to tell you

Cara

April 19, 2016  |  10:k PM
Hey guys i know that this is a betta fish website but my african cichlid is pregnet and i just wanted to tell y'all.

BatGurl

April 19, 2016  |  11:k AM
KAREN:
Couldn't agree with you more!

Karen R Kelleher

April 19, 2016  |  3:k AM
I love my Betta. He has his own personality, not like those flitty little neon fish in the big tank . They are stupid. He is intelligent. It is exactly like having a dog or cat kind of pet, not a swimming/pacing, ROBOTIC movements of other fish. These fish seem to, no,no,no, I KNOW these fish have FEELINGS. I know they do. They get happy, sad, depressed, funny, silly, they KNOW WHO YOU ARE... GET THEM THE SUCTION CUP LEAF to rest on! Please! they LOVE to lay on it. I think they NEED to lay on it, quite frankly. Don't over feed please. DO NOT DO IT. BE KIND> CLEAN their tanks. Take them with you from room to room. Mine has a tank carrier, I made up, and i just pp the other stuff right out if the tank in one piece, if need be, because they're strapped together with plastic ties, along with the wires, and I have it plugged into a dedicate power strip. Makes turning them on and off a lot easier. He is much happier now, and he is GROWING...He wants to get big, I think, and yes, he likes his water warm. THAT makes him VERY happy. I can FEEL my Betta's emotions. He stares a me and does different things. He changes his color back and forth and his front flips just go a mile a minute when I get close to him. sometmes if i am gone for a few days, i come back to him pouting, or super depressed. Both scenarios call for the appropriate conversation WITH A FISH in tank, and if you are old like me, well, peeps think you're nutso! "Oh, she's gone off the deep end.....ohhhhh". BUT I do not care. He obviously needs me to talk to him, because after I do he eats, does his happy funky twirl swim thing, and stares at me gleefully. I caught him watching TV with me one night, peeking around his blanket.!! Too funny!

Lilly

April 18, 2016  |  9:k PM
Hi! My male Betta seems to not be eating. He shows no signs of disease and I've tried multiple different food options. Please help!!!

BatGurl

April 16, 2016  |  1:k PM
Hey Everybody! Sorry I haven't been on for a while! Just here to tell everyone that I got a new Betta. His name is Haku ( like from the movie Spirited Away) and is pink,blue and white. He is really pretty and very large, around 2 inches.

Tatia

April 16, 2016  |  10:k AM
Can you help me please. My female betta fish has some white cotton like all over body. How can I help?

KC

April 16, 2016  |  1:k AM
Help! I'm pet sitting this entire weekend and it was supposed to only be two dogs. Last minute, I was Informed about needing to feed the fish. "Just sprinkle a little" I was told. Well I was trying to sprinkle Alittle and 1/4 of the bottle pours into the fish bowl! I know absolutely nothing about fish, but I know this would be a problem.. Getting a hold of the owner is next to impossible I've been trying for hours. So I knew I needed to empty that food out immediately. I used a small laddle to put the fish into a delegate container with new water, my boyfriend said cold tap water is fine but now that I'm researching it, i see that it's not! I REALLY just need some immediate assistance in helping this poor fish before I accidentally kill it.

trinity

April 15, 2016  |  10:k AM
Thanks but Blue berry is doing much better now that i am not feeding him dry food or any for that matter he is not floating weird and i think he will be back to normal in no time THANKS!

BatGurl

April 14, 2016  |  10:k PM
Only peas, i don't know if Lima beans are good for them. I wouldn't suggest it...

Shari

April 14, 2016  |  11:k AM
I have many betta fish, but the one I have now just lays up at the top, dose nothing it's almost like he is dead but he is not, is there a thing I can do to make him more active? He has a pump and a plant in his tank but he just lays at the top??? Please help

trinity

April 14, 2016  |  10:k AM
Hey i know that you told me to use a forth of a pea but can i use a soy bean if that is okay i don't have pease or will the bean kill it?

BatGurl

April 13, 2016  |  5:k PM
TRINITY: Try not giving you fish any food for three days and then feeding him a thawed pea. Only a quarter of it though. If it doesnt work try it again and then if it doesnt work again try and find a person at a pet store that can help. Don't go to Petsmart of Petco, most of their employees don't know anything about fish and their needs.

Emily

April 13, 2016  |  11:k AM
TRINITY: your fish is sick. Is he moving at all? try giving him medicine found at pet stores

Emily

April 13, 2016  |  11:k AM
TRINITY: your fish is sick. Is he moving at all? try giving him medicine found at pet stores

trinity

April 13, 2016  |  11:k AM
I need help I don't know whats wrong with my fish he keeps floating to the top of the tank on his side and try's to go back down like normal but it's like gravity is not working

Emily

April 12, 2016  |  8:k PM
MYA: Siamese fighting fish will only attack other beta fish or fish that are a lot smaller or bigger than it. Since goldfish are the same size as the beta, beta won't eat goldfish.

Victoria

April 7, 2016  |  10:k PM
Hi KM, got your message. Would never pass it on but i understand your logic about security. Anyways Sharkey is back on top as usual. He is such a trooper I cannot believe it. He was so skitsy it was scary. I have only been putting close to 2gallons of water in tank now, so I can keep it warmer also. He loves it warm. I have a soft blanket wrapped around the heating pad to keep him warm,. is that crazy or what??? trying to figure out where to put him when the A/C is running, cuz I like it cool. How is your fish doing? Weird how they can all be so different huh??? Sharkey is now in the stage of staring at himself in the mirrored sides of tank, flaring up, i am sure he thinks he is seeing other males. its funny. like he is posing or something. he goes from side to side. wonder why they mirror the sides of a betta tank knowing they dont like to see other males???? and why are all the cords on everything we must plug in BLACK. just curious about how silly all these black cords look across my table. Glad to hear back from you. Continue to write and let me know how yours are. ok?? great.

Kathleen

April 7, 2016  |  2:k AM
VICTORIA...

Sorry to hear Sharkey isnt doing well.. Please let me know how its going. I got you rmessage, but hesitate to post my email here for privacy. Sending you both love and luck!
KM

Cara

April 4, 2016  |  10:k PM
ZELDATHEZERO:
It matters on there personality. Your betta may or may not like it because of there personality. But your betta shouldn't die from an air pump. I've seen many people that own betta that have an air pump in there tank and haven't died. It could cause stress depending on your betta's personalitty.

ZeldaTheZero

April 2, 2016  |  6:k PM
Will beta fish die if you hair an air pump in the water with them? I put it in there for my kuhli loach and my aunt just told me that my betta-fish would die if I kept the air pump going, I'm super scared because I love my little sam-sams and don't want him to die :'( Please help me!!!

BatGurl

March 31, 2016  |  8:k PM
SPIDERMELON:
Sorry to hear about your fish. But if in my opinion animals are always worth it. If it doesn't work out at least you'll know you tried if it doesn't work out and you'll know you tried your best instead of feeling guilty. :)

name

March 30, 2016  |  11:k PM
hi my betta never eats or at least i have never seen him. he is new but he is really shy please help

Spidermelon

March 30, 2016  |  6:k PM
Ive had this betta for almost two years. For the last couple months hes been swimming less and now his fins are gone. Hes floating vertical in the tank but still breathing from the surface only. Girlfriend is having a fit because we keep pretty good care of it. Is this fish a lost cause or worth the money she wants to spend on medicine and stuff?

BatGurl

March 30, 2016  |  11:k AM
CARA:
Glad to hear it. sorry i couldn't help more.

Cara

March 29, 2016  |  9:k PM
BATGURL:
Thank you for trying to help me. MoonLight is fine now she just needed to ajust.

BatGurl

March 28, 2016  |  11:k AM
Huh, i don't know then sorry :(

Cara

March 28, 2016  |  10:k AM
BATGURL:
I've already separated them into diffrent tanks and MoonLight is still flaring. But not as bad.

BatGurl

March 27, 2016  |  7:k PM
That might be the trouble then. Try covering the holes with so that she can't see your other fish. or you could get different divider. I had this problem a little while ago, and changing the divider helped. :)

Cara

March 26, 2016  |  9:k PM
BATGURL:
Probably. I mean the wall has little holes in it.

trinity

March 26, 2016  |  5:k PM
If you want your gold fish to die then go ahead put the Betta with them. I don't think that it's a good idea to do that Mya.

BatGurl

March 25, 2016  |  5:k PM
CARA:
Can Moonlight see your other fish?

Cara

March 25, 2016  |  9:k AM
Can someone please help me! It's been a day straight without MoonLight not flaring. She flared once yesterday and now her fins and tail won't go down! Isn't it bad for them to flare that much? I am extremely worried. Will she die if she does it too much?

Cara

March 24, 2016  |  8:k AM
Whats wrong with my fish? MoonLight won't stop flaring and i mean she flared once and now her tail and fins won't come down. I'm really worried

Anna

March 23, 2016  |  8:k PM
Is it true the oil from your hands can effect the betta fishes water and get it sick? My mom told me not to put my hand in the tank when she touched it 10 times to clean out tank, will that effect the fish? Its been a week since that happened but i am wanting to know if it will die sooner... thanks!

Anna

March 23, 2016  |  8:k PM
Is it true the oil from your hands can effect the betta fishes water and get it sick? My mom told me not to put my hand in the tank when she touched it 10 times to clean out tank, will that effect the fish? Its been a week since that happened but i am wanting to know if it will die sooner... thanks!

Anna

March 23, 2016  |  8:k PM
Is it true the oil from your hands can effect the betta fishes water and get it sick? My mom told me not to put my hand in the tank when she touched it 10 times to clean out tank, will that effect the fish? Its been a week since that happened but i am wanting to know if it will die sooner... thanks!

Cara

March 22, 2016  |  2:k PM
Thanks BatGurl! That makes me feel a lot better.

BatGurl

March 22, 2016  |  11:k AM
CARA: Thats ok. I had a Betta that never made a bubble nest in the year that i had him. It some times just depends on their personality. :)

Cara

March 21, 2016  |  8:k PM
BATGURL: The tank that i have splits my male , Jupitar, and my female , MoonLight. Although MoonLight is a baby female.

BatGurl

March 21, 2016  |  6:k PM
CARA:
Don't worry, they normally only make bubble nests when theres a female beta around although it does depend on there personality.

Cara

March 21, 2016  |  3:k PM
My betta , Jupitar , hasn't made a bubblenest yet and this is the 3rd day I've had him. Should i be concerned with his health or should i let him settle a little bit more?

BatGurl

March 21, 2016  |  12:k PM
By the way the part on this website about how they will fight each other is incorrect, female betta's can live in groups along a

Cara

March 20, 2016  |  6:k PM
I just got my second betta yesterday and I bought a cute little tank with a wall between them. And when Batgurl mentioned her betta, Moonbeam , it reminded me of MoonLight. She was my first betta and she is finally eating! I just had to change her food to bloodworms instead of " My Betta " which is what i used to have. This website has helped me learn alot for my bettas so thanks for all of you who come here to help.

BatGurl

March 20, 2016  |  2:k PM
My Betta fish, Moonbeam, is my favorite animal ever! I put my favorite bracelet around the top of his tank i love him so much. But he has this weird kinda discolored bump on his top fin. It doesn't seem to be disrupting his swimming or anything...

BatGurl

March 20, 2016  |  1:k PM
VICTORIA:
Sounds really serious! I've never encountered some thing like that, sorry. Hope Sharky gets better!
I am going to get another beta fish soon and i am super exited!

Victoria

March 19, 2016  |  4:k PM
Hi everyone. Havent been on for a while and I cant believe I even have to write this but: Sharkey was doing splendid and then two nights ago he started acting super super weird. He was hiding behind his heater which is attached to the side, and then he would swim out a bit and then turn around REEEALLL FAST like someone was behind him and then go hide again. He acted like he was super meth'd out or something. He was a nervous wreck. I have no idea at all what the heck happened. So yesterday I put him back into his 1gal bowl to give him security but then I noticed below his eyes by nose, the scales were scraped off and it was like raw bloody looking and he had scraped some off his back too. I dont know what the heck is his deal but I will tell you I am truly not going to go thru an era of him being sick again. He wants his water very warm, 80, so i constantly am worrying about keeping the heating pad on most of the night, and i keep the pooh and debris off the bottom. Oh yeah and he is EXTREMELY hungry like i never feed him. I was told dont feed him and then I just have , as long as he eats it right away and I feel like maybe eating will calm him down also. He does not have the ick for sure, does anyone else have any ideas. I know I know he needs mental accessment. He acts buck crazy right now.

Cara

March 19, 2016  |  10:k AM
She keeps swimming up to the top of the tank and opening her mouth so i drop some food in there but she juts swims away.

Cara

March 19, 2016  |  9:k AM
Is it normal to have your new betta not eat? It's only been 1 day since i got her and she hasn't eat a bit. Should i be worried?

Catelyn

March 18, 2016  |  10:k PM
Np that's what we are here for

Elizabeth Adams

March 18, 2016  |  10:k PM
Thanks to those that answered my question your amazing

Catelyn

March 17, 2016  |  6:k AM
They won't make bubble best until they are happy and/or have a female betta beside their tank, NOT IN. This is to batgurl and Elizabeth☺️

BatGurl

March 16, 2016  |  7:k PM
ELIZABETH:
Don't worry, if he isn't swimming weird of anything that he's fine. Neither one of my bettas makes bubble nests. :)

Elizabeth Adams

March 16, 2016  |  7:k PM
I have a male betta fish and I was wondering why he doesn't make a bubble nests can someone please answer my question

binsy

March 16, 2016  |  5:k PM
you suk

BatGurl

March 12, 2016  |  5:k PM
Dixie:
Warning! this might mean something is terribly wrong with your fish. One of my betas passed away from Dropsy, which is incurable, and started to show that kind of symptom.

BatGurl

March 12, 2016  |  5:k PM
I had a betta fish that was fine as long as the other fish didn't bully him. Goldfish tend to be bully's i have noticed...

Victoria

March 12, 2016  |  9:k AM
SAKANA Hi.... first off NO to that much food. its a tough thing for us women not to feed another person, pet, cat, dog, fish???? my son said absolutely do not overfeed them, it will kill them way much sooner. but they always want to eat huh>? I give Sharkey one pellet around noon, when the cat and mom have lunch., then i have dried bloodworms that i give him 1-2 every other day or so. The thing about the food is that if they spit it out and when they pooh it goes to the bottom and if not discarded soon they both become poisonous and will make the fish sick within a day or so. i use a turkey baster to suck up stuff and i bought those dark rocks people put in small fountains ya know and i think they look more natural and dont get as dirty/slimy near as quick. now as far as the size of tank it depends first off how small/young your fish is. Mine was teeny tiny when we got him, it took him 4-5 mths to get bigger and feel braver in a 3gal moon shaped tank. they are bred and use to shallow rice patties . I feel alot depends on the fish, they seem to be alot like people in the way that they are all different . mine likes his water around 80, others dont flinch at 70....i have a picky one i guess, i literally have a heating pad around it to keep it warm enough, and you must give them the notion of day and night. i actually cover sharkey up with a soft warm blankey at night time. he gets close to 12 hrs light and 12 dark. it gives them time to destress and relax. they are very hyper little guys. just love him and he will be happy. good luck and let me know how all is going ok

Victoria

March 12, 2016  |  9:k AM
SAKANA Hi.... first off NO to that much food. its a tough thing for us women not to feed another person, pet, cat, dog, fish???? my son said absolutely do not overfeed them, it will kill them way much sooner. but they always want to eat huh>? I give Sharkey one pellet around noon, when the cat and mom have lunch., then i have dried bloodworms that i give him 1-2 every other day or so. The thing about the food is that if they spit it out and when they pooh it goes to the bottom and if not discarded soon they both become poisonous and will make the fish sick within a day or so. i use a turkey baster to suck up stuff and i bought those dark rocks people put in small fountains ya know and i think they look more natural and dont get as dirty/slimy near as quick. now as far as the size of tank it depends first off how small/young your fish is. Mine was teeny tiny when we got him, it took him 4-5 mths to get bigger and feel braver in a 3gal moon shaped tank. they are bred and use to shallow rice patties . I feel alot depends on the fish, they seem to be alot like people in the way that they are all different . mine likes his water around 80, others dont flinch at 70....i have a picky one i guess, i literally have a heating pad around it to keep it warm enough, and you must give them the notion of day and night. i actually cover sharkey up with a soft warm blankey at night time. he gets close to 12 hrs light and 12 dark. it gives them time to destress and relax. they are very hyper little guys. just love him and he will be happy. good luck and let me know how all is going ok

Victoria

March 12, 2016  |  9:k AM
BATGURL I am so sorry to hear your fishy died. Its so sad isnt it?? they are difficult pets, fish, you cant hug them or give them chicken soup if they feel bad, maybe that is why we get sooo connected with them tho cuz we give them all that we can...i give my sharkey kisses on the glass, he seems to actually like that. yesterday he seemed sorta anxious, he was making bubble nests just last week and now this week NO. I feel like i should be carrying him with me everywhere, they really want your attention dont they?? I have convinced? trained? coherched? my cat to go and lay in front of his tank a couple times a day. So here i am explaining to my cat how much more the fish's life is than even hers....oh boy, what you do for entertainment at 63.

Victoria

March 12, 2016  |  9:k AM
BATGURL I am so sorry to hear your fishy died. Its so sad isnt it?? they are difficult pets, fish, you cant hug them or give them chicken soup if they feel bad, maybe that is why we get sooo connected with them tho cuz we give them all that we can...i give my sharkey kisses on the glass, he seems to actually like that. yesterday he seemed sorta anxious, he was making bubble nests just last week and now this week NO. I feel like i should be carrying him with me everywhere, they really want your attention dont they?? I have convinced? trained? coherched? my cat to go and lay in front of his tank a couple times a day. So here i am explaining to my cat how much more the fish's life is than even hers....oh boy, what you do for entertainment at 63.

Dixie

March 12, 2016  |  8:k AM
M betta fish has started acting funny. He doesn't swim as much and sits on his heater all the time. The thermometer says 78. He seems to go a time where he likes his food to not liking it and refusing to eat. Is something wrong with him?

BatGurl

March 11, 2016  |  6:k PM
My favorite betta fish, Sunbeam, passed away from dropsy... 'sob'

Victoria

March 10, 2016  |  1:k PM
KATHLEEN yes I am still here. Somedays just go by and I dont get online. I love my Sharkey....I feel bad that he cant like sit next to me on my couch ya know??? He always wants me to pay attention to him....h,m,,,, or is it he always wants me to FEED HIM. That is one thing you have to watch...my son has had fish since he was little, he had Oscars and they were cool until they got Hole in the Head. But he said DO NOT OVERFEED THEM. They want to eat all the time, like little kids ....haha. But I have the pellets and I will give him one, only one when I get up and feed the cat and I get my cereal. I also bought dried bloodworms which is good for their color and health, but I only give him a few strands every couple days. I had bought a turkey baster during november to suck stuff up from the bottom. I couldnt think of anything else to use and since then I have seen other people talk of using them also. But everyday I check the bottom for food they drop or pooh....if those are left in there they become poisonous and thats a good way for them to get ICK. Plus the water being cool made him get the ICK also. Did you read that I keep a heating pad around his tank to keep it warm and I also cover him at night with a blanket to keep him warm and let him know its night night time. I know I am weird but hey my kids grew up and dont need me anymore so i had to find other things to take care of. haha. give me your email address and we can write and share more tips that way ok> that would be fun. Thanks for writing Kathleen.

Kathleen

March 7, 2016  |  12:k AM
Victoria- are you still active on this site? I had to register and tell you how insightful, cute and touching your insights were to owning a betta fish. Partially because you opened my eyes to your earnest care and concern for your little finned one, and how they affect the soul, I am investing in the better/best aquarium etcc.. and hope to keep my little guy as happy as long as possible.Thank you for your sweet, humble and sincere remarks about owning to to being a pet owner, and the sublime joys of owning a little finned fish.

sainadh

March 3, 2016  |  8:k PM
why the betta fish wishes to swim alone?? can any body say??

Victoria

March 1, 2016  |  3:k AM
MIKE what is a Corydora???? I feel bad for my fish being alone also, first thought HOW CUTE WOULD IT BE TO HAVE BABIES??? Man that is alot of work for real. The way you described how they got along after 10 min reminds me of two 3rd grade boys standing off to each other and then become friends instead right???? Let me know ok? thanks

Victoria

March 1, 2016  |  3:k AM
EMILIA, what kind of lilypad did you get for your fish. that would be really cute. I have noticed in the last week that Sharkey is kinda marking his spot by his bonsai tree, fake, he poops right by it. funny huh?? hey it works for me tho, dont have to search all over if there is pooh or not

Victoria

March 1, 2016  |  3:k AM
according to leaving light on. I was told by many fish owners that you always turn the light off at the same time every night . Since he is in the living room with me, so i cover him with a pretty towel, also helps keep him warm since I cannot live without a fan running, winter or not. But the petstore also told me to make sure they are accustomed to the ritual of knowing the diff between day and night. some nights he gets to stay up late cuz i forget, and some days he sleeps in with me and the cat. Think where they came from they were outside and had day and night. It also gives them the time to be calm, de-stress and just chill which is healthy for us all right???

Victoria

March 1, 2016  |  3:k AM
My son also told me NOT to feed them very much, in fact they can go a good three days without eating BUT I cant do that to him. What a woosie I am huh? But it is NOT good to feed them alot. I have read many reports about overfeeding them. He gets one pellet late afternoon and then I give him 3-4 strings of dried bloodworms. The reason I give him those also right now is to help build back up his strength and color that he lost when sick. Just in the last week he started with the bubbles but he did do them throughout the time when he is covered and the water is a bit cooler at night. I read too that they make them not only for the babies but when they are happy.

Victoria

March 1, 2016  |  3:k AM
Once a week I clean the whole tank, put him in a small coffee pot from a machine, the glass ones...its small, but i learned the best way to do it without freaking him out tooo bad was to talk to him and come up behind him with the glass and just gently scoop him up., He is starting to get use to it, so I have that water to put back in plus I save maybe a 1/4 of some of the top water to also put back in. My son told me you have to be careful NOT to take out all of their water. It has some of their "essence" ya know??? Their good bacteria and etc. I clean the rocks, the fake plant, the heater, the filter and the tank. It is sooooo pretty and shiny when all cleaned. So he goes to every thing in the tank to check it out, many times I move things around and he has to investigate everything. Hes funny

Victoria

March 1, 2016  |  3:k AM
MIKE, do you mean by an aerator like a filter??? or a bubble stone?? Mine has both. CATHERINE, I pet my fish some days and others not. It took me a while to get him use to me, have had him since Aug. Some can be kinda skittish I guess, mine is but after I feed him or do something nice for him i just kinda reach in and give him a couple touches back by the fins. make sure your hands are clean or use latex gloves. I hadnt ever read anything about whether it was good exercise to let them flare up or not. I did think though it could make them either aggressive, scared or stressed. So I dont do it. But ever notice everybody ?? that all fish tanks seem to be mirror reflective when the water is put in. ??? Mine just stares at himself, I dont know if he knows its him or not. I broke my thermometer but it was funny one day, he was copying what I do, I always would bend down and look at the temp so I caught him just staring at the thermometer one day for quite a long time. He was probably wondering: what the heck is the big deal with this thing anyways?

Elizabeth Adams

February 29, 2016  |  9:k PM
I love my betta fish cc I've had him for 6 months and he has such a outgoing personality I change his aquarium every three weeks and I give him blood worms twice a week and I skip one day of not feeding him because I heard it's good for their digestion I love my betta I hope he lives a long and happy life

Victoria

February 29, 2016  |  8:k PM
Mary Jo, you say you wanted to buy all the fish at WalMart, well girl I am with you. I go to Pet Smart and there they all were, sad looking in a rather darkish area , so sad, especially the dead one floating nose up........wow......it was one of those real pretty ones with the fins that look like ruffles??? white with pink edges. beautiful. actually i found two dead. If i had tons more room I would buy a bunch of them and find some where to put them all. It is tooooo sad for me. Sierra lone wolf, sounds like your fish definitly is sick. When my fish was recently sick, i swear he got like a chemical burn from trying to kill the ICK and then theres the fungal disease in the water, then the conditioner.......he literally LOOKED at me like: dang woman I feel like crap, can you help me please???? SERIOUSLY.......he had these white circles around his eyes and they were like FIXATED and couldnt move, like he ate some bad pills or something ya know??? and all his color was gone and he didnt even want to swim. so all day, eve and all night i would get up like every 30-40 min and check on him and make him swim. Two days later he was looking at me like::: I feel so much better. THANKS. If your fish has little white spots, look like someone salted him, thats ICK, its mainly a water problem. you have to suck up the pooh and yucky left over food from the bottom. i bought a turkey baster , couldnt get to the pet store, and started doing that everyday. if you dont get it out out, it swells up and becomes poisonous, contaminating the water. So everyday now i just check the bottom for pooh. I did have those colored shiny stones but they got really slimy very quickly. then i got some brownish/blk stones like people put in water fountains and they work great. I was like on NURSE duty 24/7 and felt like i had a newborn at home again. I ended up using straight bottled spring water. good luck, let me know how it goes.

Victoria

February 29, 2016  |  8:k PM
YES Mya they will. I am giving my Sharkey, dried bloodworms every other day. Just like 4 strings. He loves them. He is such an aggressive eater. He attacks it like a kid that loves cake. Lana: i saw now that bettas are like people. we are all different and have different preferences. i have read where people say their fish love to ride the bubbles etc....mine is completely not hip to them at all, in fact i did read they dont like a fast moving water movement because of the streams they swam in the Phillipines were slow moving rice streams/paddies. so i slowed down the filter. Now I do have a light on the side of the tank, a night light bulb, then a lamp on the other side and at night I will use the bubble rock that came with tank, since he doesnt like the bubbles, and put it on top of his glass top shining down on just one section of the tank, and he seems to like that. it looks cool with the colors changing from blue, red, green and he is brown with purple/navy blue shades, so the lights give him different hues. Its fun for me to watch it anyways... He has a 6-7in high japanese plastic bonsai tree that he hides under , i bought a live plant and it died in two days and was a real waste of money. I got these stones from the dollar tree that are brownish/blk and maybe it is like the muddy bottom of the patties, cuz he likes them and lies on them to rest. thats all thats in there besides, the filter and heater. doesnt leave alot of room in a 3gal tank.

Victoria

February 29, 2016  |  7:k PM
First I would like to ask how do we comment back to someone elses question????? Ok I know Jain said his fish died. I am sorry that is sad. Izzy, I had someone pour all the fish food pellets in my tank also. I couldnt believe it. I had just gotten a 30 gallon tank from my son and wanted to create like a stream like where they came from. So i only added like foot and half high of water, and put colored stones and natural shells all along the bottom, it was beautiful. I put him in, he was in there happy as ever, swimming llike an Olympic, and I was in the other room and my neighbors 11yr old granddaughter poured alllllllll full container of pellets in. then she went back next door, I came out and it looked like a thousand hot air balloons floating on top until he began to eat them all. He died and I cried and he got 7hrs of bliss in his big tank... I put him in a freezer bag and sealed box for months. Seriously, when your children grow up and you are alone with your pets, they are your kids hahahaha I have a new guy now and after 6mths of him being sick and me trying to figure out the water situation he is finally a HERO. it was awful I ended up with straight bottled spring water, it is full of oxygen which cant be bad and he has blossomed. making bubbles now. good luck Izzy

Victoria

February 29, 2016  |  4:k AM
P.S. I found that the immersible heaters do not get the water near warm enough for a 3gallon tank at all. I , seriously again, have a heating pad with a blue cover over it and it is wrapped around the rounded part of his half moon tank. I also like my room cool, so I suppose that doesnt help, but those heaters are not the best. A good heater costs closer to $50 or so. Funny tho, I had another betta and he didnt mind the cooler water. I suppose they are just like we are, everyone is different. Good luck everyone with their fish. I wish I could load up a pic but I lost my usb for camera and cant get a new one due to it being older. Oh well, there are worse things in life right???

Victoria

February 29, 2016  |  4:k AM
Well this is an update on my male betta, Sharkey, who was so sick since Aug. After having him in the bedroom for a good month, I cleaned his whole tank one night and the next morn found him within seconds of dying. Had his face in the corner on top of water. I moved him and he sank and tried to swim but couldnt. I freaked out completely. I thought NOT NOW AFTER ALL WE HAVE BEEN THRU. So I put him in my hand and rubbed his belly and blew air in his mouth, seriously, I did this. Put him in a small bowl of fairly cool water to try and shock him back to life. I had this real experience in life and it worked for me. .....no movement. I cried and went in the other room for a good hour. Went back in and I am serious he was swimming around. I couldnt believe it, there is a God for Fish too!!!!!! I realized he had been chemically burnt by all the different products I was using as told to by petstore people.I tested in crystal glasses all the different ways I was using tap water, bottled water etc.....I found that straight bottled spring water was the clearest and full of air which is good not only for humans but the fish also. He has made a 150% recovery and is beautiful and so very happy. He is now making bubble nests in the corners. I bought him some dried bloodworms to help make him strong. I said I should call him 9 LIVES now. I am so happy and cant believe what we have been thru together. He is back out in the living room with me now. He loves me. Happy Ending, Thank God

Tara

February 28, 2016  |  9:k PM
Hi ! Tery if you are saying hi to me....hello!!

tery

February 26, 2016  |  6:k PM
hi

Tara

February 22, 2016  |  6:k AM
Oh yeah ! He also makes bubbles and has white slimy stuff in tank I read this is normal ,I am glad I came across this website ,I see Bella is very happy and hope he lives as long as possible..I taped a pic if me and my boyfriend Max on the back of his bowl I think he likes that alot !!!!!!

Tara

February 22, 2016  |  6:k AM
Hello ! Well I just read alot if comments on Betas ,I have a beautiful male named Bella..( I thought it was a female). Anyway he wiggles when I call his name his little pec fins go a mile a minute and just loves me,he does a little jump when I feed him ,I think love and attention is what they need ,not just ignored in the corner somewhere,whatever room I go in he comes along or I feel bad that he is alone.

Tara

February 22, 2016  |  6:k AM
Hello ! Well I just read alot if comments on Betas ,I have a beautiful male named Bella..( I thought it was a female). Anyway he wiggles when I call his name his little pec fins go a mile a minute and just loves me,he does a little jump when I feed him ,I think love and attention is what they need ,not just ignored in the corner somewhere,whatever room I go in he comes along or I feel bad that he is alone.

manisha

February 21, 2016  |  11:k AM
I have 3 beta.n i put them in separate bowl.today 1 if my beta dies jumped out from the bowl.:-( he was fine and happy very active.i dont know why this happened

Sandra Williams

February 19, 2016  |  3:k PM
There is some bubbles on the top of my water can you tell me why ?Thank You

robert

February 17, 2016  |  6:k AM
I've got three male bettas in three separate containers. One is a small plastic betta tank with an air pump, the other two are glass with no air pumps. My two males in the glass tanks (red crown tail - FIGARO and a tan crown tail - POSEIDON) still haven't built a bubble nest; but that's not my issue!
The two glass tanks always have a film on the top of the water! I clean the tanks, the stones, the plants etc with HOT water, then rinse with COLD. I add back clean room temperature water.
After a day or two the (greasy looking) film has returned! ANY IDEAS???

Hana

February 16, 2016  |  2:k AM
My Betta has become accustomed to jumping up and eating pellets off of my finger and he can usually get it in one try. But today after three tries he still didn't get it, and on his fourth jump he actually latched onto my finger and didn't let go for a second. Anyone else experience this...?

Adam

February 15, 2016  |  9:k PM
I'm able to get my betta (Black Dragon Pekka) to live peacefully (most of the time) with other fishes in a community tank. The trick is to have ample space and enough coverage for other fishes.

Alazaye

February 14, 2016  |  10:k PM
I had 2 Betta's, 1 I got 2 yrs ago & the other was over a month ago... a few wks ago the 1 I had 4 2 yrs died right after I changed it from a flower vase 2 a 1 gal. fish bowl... the vase had only rocks & a plant & then his new home had the rocks & half the plant plus a couple fake flower things for the fish plus a lil' rock home... thinking he would luv the upgrade well I think I was wrong unless he was just old bc no telling how long the store had him b4 I got him but anyways needless 2 say I just got a new beta; nsted of going 2 Walmart where I got the other 2 I went to petsmart & nsted of just 1 kind this store had at least 5 different types of beta's (all of them were labeled) & I had an associate 2 ask questions about the fish... going back 2 answering sum1's question 'bout knowing the gender bc that was 1 of the questions I asked & I hate 2 say this but the female beta's r not very pretty n my opinion bc it's the males w/ the real long & beautiful fins, the females fins r like goldfish fins (short) & a fact that I just googled is even tho their called Japanese fighting fish they did not originate in Japan it was in the streams of South Asia (Thailand & Cambodia)

Dottie Pyle

February 10, 2016  |  12:k PM
Just got a Betta, love him but he is staying on top of the heater tube. Is this normal?

jocelyn

February 8, 2016  |  10:k PM
so i had a betta and he died. i dont know what happened but he wouldnt move from a corner and his head was always down. w thought he was constipated and we gave him a pea but he died a day or two later. he didnt eat the pea. what could have been wrong with him?

Lexie

February 8, 2016  |  9:k PM
Are the scales on the fish supposed to come off overtime?

katherine

February 6, 2016  |  5:k PM
It depends on the fish. it may or may not eat other goldfish

sidney

February 6, 2016  |  8:k AM
i have a very small Betta will it get bigger?

sidney

February 6, 2016  |  8:k AM
i have a very small Betta will it get bigger?

Catelyn

February 2, 2016  |  7:k PM
No betta DO NOT get affected by the light but, just something to keep in mind is that betta don't like the light a lot but you can still have it try not to run it 24/7. This is a response to RIANE OBRYAN (p.s I am sorry if I spelled your name wrong.)

ass

February 2, 2016  |  9:k AM
ass

riane obryan

February 1, 2016  |  4:k PM
do betta fish get affected by the light

riane obryan

February 1, 2016  |  4:k PM
do betta fish get affected by the light

riane obryan

February 1, 2016  |  4:k PM
do betta fish get affected by the light

ROBERT

February 1, 2016  |  1:k PM
this is in reply to:
trinity - I have a two blue Betta's and one is a girl and one is a boy . The thing is I want them to have baby's and I heard they fight what do I do ?
HERE IS WHAT I DID - ITS REALLY FASCINATING!
YOU NEED TWO DIFFERENT BOWLS - FOR ME, I PREFER SQUARE ONES - MALE IN ONE; FEMALE IN THE OTHER. PUT THE BOWLS SIDE-BY-SIDE - THE MALE WILL BEGIN TO BUILD THE BUBBLE NEST - WHEN HE IS FINISHED, HE WILL TURN HIS ATTENTION TO THE FEMALE - TAKE HER OUT AND PUT HER IN WITH THE MALE --- HE WILL TAKE HER AND WRAP HIMSELF AROUND HER SQUEEZING THE EGGS OUT OF HER - SHE WILL BE SEMI-PARALIZED, HE WILL PICK THE EGS IN HIS MOUTH AND SHOOT THEM INTO THE BUBBLE NEST! THIS WILL GO ON UNTIL HE HAS ALL THE EGGS IN THE NEXT. IMMEDIATELY TAKE HER OUT OF THAT BOWL AND RETURN HER TO HER HOME. HE WILL TAKE CARE OF THE NEST (MAKE SURE THERE ARE PLENTY OF LEAFY PLANTS FOR THE OFFSPRING TO HIDE. WHEN THEY DO HATCH - REMOVE THE MALE IMMEDIATELY (OR HIS KIDS WILL BE HIS DINNER!!!)
THIS IS TRULY FASCINATING TO WATCH!!!
GOOD LUCK ...

trinity

February 1, 2016  |  12:k PM
To tell you all the truth it depends on the fish some kill some love other fish . :D

trinity

February 1, 2016  |  12:k PM
I dont know how to get my fish to have baby's without them eating each other?

trinity

February 1, 2016  |  12:k PM
I want my girl Betta to mate how do I get them to if they try to kill each other

trinity

February 1, 2016  |  12:k PM
I have a two blue Betta's and one is a girl and one is a boy . The thing is I want them to have baby's and I heard they fight what do I do ?

sd

February 1, 2016  |  9:k AM
thanks

nixon1968

January 31, 2016  |  8:k AM
how can i know the gender of my betta

nixon1968

January 31, 2016  |  8:k AM
how can i know the gender of my betta

Kyia Mackey

January 25, 2016  |  8:k PM
Mya. I have a male crown tail Betta and i also have a gold fish and a snail and at first the gold fish was hiding a lot but after two days there were perfectly fine with each other in a 10 gallon tank but today i took the betta out of the tank because he kept hiding inside a shell and was not eating or swimming that much so it all depends on the beta.

gtu

January 24, 2016  |  4:k PM
fh

Victoria

January 23, 2016  |  9:k PM
I have had this male betta since august and since october he has been sick. He had those white spots so I thought ICK...so for two months I doctored him for that, and that is no easy chore let me tell you. And here it is Jan and still looking sick. Theres all this white stuff floating around like tiny skinny ghosts. Ok now petstore says thats fungal due to water. I put him in my bedroom where i have the heat cranked to 8o. He did not like the cooler temp and thats when he got sick. He still doesnt look very pretty, but he seems happy and has been growing. Its driving me crazy.,. cant i just have a happy normal fish??? I use to have a filter even and that didnt keep him from getting sick. And HE HATES BUBBLES, i call him a whoosey...haha He lets me pet him tho, has the long floaty fins, but hes brown and kinda purple, Not the prettiest but he is a male. Maybe hes got the real warrior colors going on. I feel bad leaving him in the other room, so the tv is on, and my cat sleeps by him. cute huh>> good luck everyone. Does the snail help???? I put a real plant in and it crapped the water up.then it died. there went 6.99. bah humbug,

lvelasco

January 23, 2016  |  9:k AM
i live in NY and is winter right now so it's obviously cold so I have my betta fish on my room which is usually warm due to the heater but i even feel cold so im seeing my betta fish staying mostly at the top and ive read is due to cold temperatures..is this normal or how can i keep him warm?

i normally have him on a bowl which he really likes but i dont have a heater because i dont have enough money

Joslyn

January 21, 2016  |  9:k PM
What if the fish doesn't eat?

Angie

January 21, 2016  |  3:k AM
Cindi, distilled water though may seem best is not. Fish can't get natural minerals out of distilled water. Also think about getting a heater with a thermostat. Just because your room is 70 does not mean the water is. Bettas like about 76.

Recovery

January 21, 2016  |  1:k AM
Me and My Wife got a crowntail named Re-Hab

Cindi

January 20, 2016  |  4:k PM
my fish is looking like it has a bacteria on it and its fins are not as bright and look ragged onthe ends I have it in the house at 70degrees.I gave it beta medicine I got at the pet store what can i do to help him with this bacteria it looks like on his scales. can I put a bamboo plant in his bowl ? I keep his bowl clean and use distilled water only with water beta conditioner in it what am i doing wrong ?

Emma

January 17, 2016  |  9:k PM
Hello, I've had my Betta for four days now. The first two he was in a little fish bowl, and then I upgraded him into a beautiful, and expensive, 5 gallon all glass tank. There would be no problem except for the fact he can see his reflection everywhere and for the last two days he hasn't stopped flaring his gills and fanning out his fins. I know this is a healthy thing for them to do, but if he doesn't figure out thats just his reflection soon if he going to give himself a heart attack or something? It can't be good for him to be constantly aggressive. Also, if there any other kinds of fish they CAN live with? Thanks

Lana3662

January 17, 2016  |  9:k PM
The tank is in my daughters room, I got her it for Christmas! It's a small tank 5gal jus the beta some fake plants and a pineapple house and bubbles lol! I also read that real plants are good for them too! I thought maybe a algae eater would be great for the tank!!! Because she seems to "over feed" him! She only feeds him once but she may be giving him too much... Thanks for the information!!

Angie

January 17, 2016  |  9:k PM
Lanna3662, there are actually a fair amount of fish that can be added to a betta tank. When you go to a pet store tell them you have a betta tank and want community fish to go with. Schooling fish seem best as they are more interested in each other then your betta most of the time. Because bettas can be very taritorial I suggest safely removing your betta into a bowl of tank water. After going through the process of intro dintroducing the new fish to your tank let theme in there for a bit to get used to there home. Than add your betta back to the tank. You must watch them very carefully and be ready to remove the betta. Some people don't know bettas can still be hurt by little fish in the way of hurting tails and fins. Also watch to make sure your betta don't attack. Try small and light colored fish bright fish can be mistaken as another betta.

Lana3662

January 17, 2016  |  7:k PM
Thx Izzy.... I wish I could post pics on here... This beta is super friendly, I can put my finger on the tank and he comes right up and let's me touch him!!!

My question was in my first post, and was wondering if there are any other fish that would get along with the beta, I have a 5 gallon tank as well!!

Izzy

January 17, 2016  |  7:k PM
Thanks Lana3662! If you'd like, ask any question and I'll answer!

Angie

January 17, 2016  |  6:k PM
After reading a few comments I just wanted to share I have a 5.5 gallon betta tank. He lives with currently 4 schooling fish. This means those 4 stay together and are the same kind of fish. I also have a snale to help keep my tank clean. I have a bubbler and my betta had claimed it as his. And by saying that he will go towards the other fish if they go inside it and he is in it. But has never hurt them. From my experience two or three females can be in a 7 gallon tank and be ok. The problem arises with multiple males. With the correct fish you can have a 70 gallon tank 1 male betta and 50 schooling fish that are organized as community fish. Do not put other fighting fish in there such as angel fish. That does not mean you can't but you rUn a high risk of death and injury. So basically remember a grounder rule of one fighting/agressive fish per tank.

Lana3662

January 17, 2016  |  4:k PM
You can not out betas together! Unless it's in a big tank like a 20 gallon tank..

Zade

January 17, 2016  |  4:k PM
I have a betta fish can you put it in together with another Berta fish

Lana3662

January 17, 2016  |  11:k AM
Izzy, the difference between male and female is their fins... Sounds like to me u have a male bc of the fun is beautiful (am I correct).

I thought this website was to help people and give suggestions! No one has helped me so I thought I would help you Izzy!! Good luck with this one!! They are pretty simple to keep alive!!! We recently just bought a few extra things to go in the tank for him and he loves the plant we put in the tank!!! They also need something to hide in, but ours does seem to like to hide, as soon as you walk up to the tank he comes right to the window!! He loves it!! My next thing is to get him a friend and get him the mirror and then start training him to eat from that spoon!!! And doing research does help... Good luck!!!!

Emily

January 17, 2016  |  2:k AM
Cathrine, stop telling everyone to "do research" and belittling them. Why do you think they're on this website in the first place? Go bettas! :)

David

January 14, 2016  |  10:k PM
My roommate brought home a beautiful blue and red betta a few months ago, I have been its main care taker since. Feeling bad I went out purchased a much bigger crib for him complete with filter, heater, LED lighting, silk plants and colorful gravel. He now has gone from lethargic and just sitting there to actively swimming all over, building a bubble nest and living on my nightstand rather than the kitchen counter. He even has tank mates, 4 Assassin Snails and a corydora I call Cory. Oscar and Cory had issues for about the first 10 min but now weeks later live happily and mostly ignore each other. Thinking its time to go from a 2.5 gal to a 5 gal tank, any thoughts on what kind is best?

Izzy

January 11, 2016  |  9:k PM
Hi guys! I'm new here... I just got a new Betta, my third, ( the other ones died I'll explain just give me a sec.) It's a pink iridescent Betta, and looks like the fins are the wedding veil shape. Just wondering, how can you tell if the Betta fish is a male or female? I tried the thing with the mirror and it puffs up. I know that's normal, but does it have anything to do with gender? ((((( here's the story of my other fish ))))) The first Betta I had was a rainbow colored fish, and it died because my older couin is a jerk. I told her to only put in 2 fish pellets and she dumped the whole thing in. I couldn't get all of the food out and the fish ended up eating it. The fish died after a couple days. My second fish was an all red Betta fish. This Betta died because we went on a vacation for a week and the bowl was a little foggy. I cleaned out the bowl but the fogginess never disappeared. The fish ended up dying a week later. )))))) Thanks!

Kate

January 9, 2016  |  11:k AM
I found a lot of good tips about Betta fish care on this site: http://whatdofisheat.com/what-do-betta-fish-eat/

I changed some food and my Betta is totally happy now:DDD
Greetings, Kate!:)

Sierra lone wolf

January 8, 2016  |  5:k PM
I have a blue beta fish and his fins look all most rotten Is anything I can do for it

Lana3662

January 7, 2016  |  9:k PM
I just bought my daughter a gold and blue beta for Christmas, he's in about a 5 gallon tank... He's moving around he loves being in a bigger tank!!! I would love to add more fish and was thinking about putting something for bubbles but not sure if it would bother him seeing how he's so used to being in a bowel ... Any suggestions would b great thx

Steverb

January 7, 2016  |  12:k AM
I recently got a new Betta and it has already grown in just over a week! I've had several in the past, one of which I saved its life twice! It somehow got a huge air bubble that made it swim on its side preventing it from being able to go up for air as it would struggle to do so. I beached it so to speak in a container with shallow water and an angled rock so it could breath. After a few days the bubble was gone and he was fine again! Months later it happened again... I did the same "beaching" procedure and again the bubble went away :) I felt like a fish doctor lol. They do have quite a personality for fish. Very friendly and very aware of your presence. To answer an above question from RUTH... the bubbles created are a nesting action. Very normal and probably means they are quite healthy.

Janet

January 6, 2016  |  7:k PM
Our beta fish lived in a 1 gallon fish bowl with water temperature much the same as house temperature...68-73 degrees. Jerome was quite the character with great personality and lived for 3 1/2 years!!

MaryJo

January 6, 2016  |  2:k AM
I bought a blue male betta at Walmart. I felt so bad for all the betta just placed in a cup to live until someone buys them. Also I purchased a 1 gallon aquarium starter kit with led light and filter system included for only $11.97. I only need to change the water once a month. BettaMin food tropical Medley with color enhancers $2.00. My betta is very entertaining and loves his new home. I just wish people knew how easy they are to take care of and that they just don't sit boringly but what can be expected when their only sold in a cup. My betta swims a lot and plays with the bubbles, he's exciting to watch and so easy to maintain. If only people could see Betta fish out of a cup like a prisoner and into an aquarium with freedom to show off their beauty.

Erika

January 5, 2016  |  6:k PM
Do betta's eat other betta's

corey

January 4, 2016  |  12:k PM
i love bettas i have a red crown tail

Adriane

December 30, 2015  |  1:k AM
I have had a 20 gal community tank before; one male betta, 3 female Bettas, 5 neon tetras, 2 mollies, and 4 Cory catfish. my male betta has never harmed any of my other fish, and he was really nice. Honestly it just depends on the fish itself(some are nice, and others aren't so nice). Bettas do not know when to stop eating, so as long as you put food in the tank, they will eat it. I fed each betta 2 pebbles 2 times a day and my other fish fish flakes. they all seemed to be fine. one of my mollies got 'ick' which is a very deadly disease for fish. they get white stuff on them. we immediately corintined all of the fish, and we had to rinse they whole tank with bleach(we made sure there was no bleach left) we had to completely dry out all of the plants and decor (that is the only way the virus will die off of them) and then our Molly died that night:( . after that, we put all the fish and everything back in and everything was okay. Also, if you see white bubbles at the top of the water IT IS NOT A BAD THING. male Bettas make them to impress females, or when they are just happy. hope some of these helped you guys:)

Melissa

December 28, 2015  |  3:k PM
I have been keeping Bettas for years. Unfortunately, people are often misinformed about a bettas needs. First off unless you live in a tropical location, a tank heater is a must have. Betta fish come from Thailand where it is 80 degrees even in the winter. Will your fish survive without a heater? Perhaps, how long it will survive depends on how hardy your particular fish is. But they will not thrive and will likely suffer a shortened life span due to living in conditions they were never intended for. Why subject them to such a life when a heater only cost $10-$15.

Madison, female betta fish can live together in something called a sorority tank. A sorority tank has to be at least 10 gallons and have lots of hiding spaces. Due to how complicated this living enviroment can be this type of tank isn't recommend for beginner aquarist.

Catelyn

December 28, 2015  |  8:k AM
Jocelyn I have had a betta for two years my water it around 64 everyday and all I do to heat it is by putting a lamp over top for a little bit. It has worked for two years now so u should be ok

catherine

December 28, 2015  |  7:k AM
Jocyeln: The water needs to be at least 78..just use some warm tap water to warm the cold

Jocelyn

December 27, 2015  |  8:k PM
I am thinking about buying a betta. I have a small tank and the water gets cold overnight. No, i do not have a tank heater. My tank is have fish tank have digital clock. The clock doesnt keep the water warm. So are bettas able to live in the cold water?

Catelyn

December 27, 2015  |  12:k PM
Well I have one half moon betta fish. I got him for Christmas. His tank has bubbles all over the side. Is that normal, and yes I have read a lot of websites and well I all I read was that the bubbles should be at the top. I need help

Jay

December 26, 2015  |  5:k PM
Madison!
I have housed bettas together...in fact when I separated them they got depressed and I had to put them back together.

It all depends on how you introduce the fish and the fishes temperament.

beth

December 26, 2015  |  1:k PM
So I plan on getting one at some time probably from the pet store
2.5 gallon tank
Food
Decorations/hiding. Places
Pebbles
The beta
Filters
heater
Thermometer
Water treatment things

Any thing else I may need?(I'll check back in a few days)

catherine

December 25, 2015  |  11:k AM
Madison Betta's live ALONE

Madison

December 25, 2015  |  11:k AM
I have a betta fish now. I've heard females can go together but is it ok if get some at different times?

Sophia

December 25, 2015  |  9:k AM
That is some great information! Thanks for the help. I just got a new Betta Fish from Santa Claus!

Catheirne

December 25, 2015  |  7:k AM
Danilela do not remove unless you want them to kill each other..didn' t they tell you that a pet store? read up on Betta's

Daniela

December 24, 2015  |  6:k PM
i just bought two betta fish. one male and one female. they are both just floating infront of the separator. should I remove it? or is this normal?

Angelina

December 24, 2015  |  1:k PM
Guys guess what you can put male and female betta fish together only if you had them in separate bowl and then put bowls close to each other and do that for 2-3 months and then put them in a sink and watch what they do then you put them together in the bowl there's 50% chance they will both freeze in the not the freeze like in the cold like stay still but if it doesn't work then just do it again

Angelina

December 24, 2015  |  1:k PM
When I poor warm water it immediately gets bubbles

Angelina

December 24, 2015  |  1:k PM
I try to put warm water but when I poor the water it immediately gets bubbles

catherine

December 24, 2015  |  1:k PM
Charlotte: You were no serious with that question about eating other betta's...if so, bring the betta back to the store until you do some homework...unbelievable

charlotte

December 24, 2015  |  1:k PM
do they eat their children like molly fish? that happened to one of my newborn molly fish i need to know this because i'm considering getting a male and a female betta fish.

jenavie

December 23, 2015  |  12:k PM
I just got him so I'm getting decorations today.

jenavie

December 23, 2015  |  12:k PM
I do have a light it is on at night and day

catherine

December 23, 2015  |  8:k AM
they like decorations to hide in

Catherine

December 23, 2015  |  8:k AM
why do you have him in a small dark tank????? They don't like that....we have a light in ours and shut off at nite

Catherine

December 23, 2015  |  8:k AM
why do you have him in a small dark tank????? They don't like that....we have a light in ours and shut off at nite

jenavie

December 23, 2015  |  1:k AM
If you want to mate them you have to put a divider and put the boy on one side an girl on the other side then wait tell the boy builds a bubble nest then take the divider out

jenavie

December 23, 2015  |  1:k AM
They will eat gold fish

dominque

December 21, 2015  |  2:k PM
What do you mean they? only 1 betta per tank unless with a seperator...do your homework before buying any other animal.

Catherine Reed

December 21, 2015  |  2:k PM
Dominque never just dump warm water into a tank for god's sakes...get a thermonter

dominique

December 21, 2015  |  2:k PM
It's December over here and put my betta in warm water, and they just died!!!>.

Navah

December 19, 2015  |  10:k PM
I got a purple betta named Aqua today and transferred him to his new tank following the pet shop instructions. Ever since, he has been staying only at the top of the aquarium, and he isn't coming down to the bottom at all. Is he sick? Or is this normal betta behavior? Thanks for the help.

Dawna

December 18, 2015  |  8:k PM
Thank you Catherine! I will try that.

catherine

December 18, 2015  |  8:k AM
Dawanna the same thing just happened to us, we went to the fish store and got him an anticbotic to put in the water...he was back to his old self in a day or so..go to your pet store.

Dawna

December 18, 2015  |  6:k AM
I have had my current Betta for three months and he has been active during this time. Over the past few days he had stopped eating, is rather lethargic and colors are not as vibrant. He is in a 1/2 gallon vase with a peace lily on top and I change the water once a week. I feed him 3-6 Betta pellets each day which he has gobbled in the past but is now rejecting. What can I do?

Winston

December 17, 2015  |  1:k AM
Hi! I just got my first beta fish from the pet store 4 days ago and he has been getting progressively more active and is coming out of the 'castle' decoration more frequently and swims up to me when I walk over to his bowl. He always seems to be hungry but I'm feeding him what it says on the can. His fins are shredded, but I'm not sure if they're supposed to be that way because that's how I got him from the pet store and he doesn't seem bothered. My room does get a bit chilly at night, but lots of warm sunlight during the day. Any suggestions?

francisco whittenburge

December 11, 2015  |  3:k PM
i didn't know that they could live 2-3 years! i used to have a betta ans gold fish together then it got messy and smelly

Franel.c

December 9, 2015  |  4:k AM
Nice

Ink

December 7, 2015  |  6:k PM
this was very helpful and had some new information to me... I would like it even better if it included a brief description on how to breed them or something on how they breed

sheila

December 7, 2015  |  6:k PM
will the male attack the female

jim bob

December 1, 2015  |  11:k AM
this was great i will now know how to take better care of my fish and will not put them together or now know how to clean their tanks

Nancy

November 30, 2015  |  3:k PM
Me Bubbles also gets so excited when I turn the lights on to feed him! He swims around fast and likes to look at me. But why does he seem to like me more than other people? Is it because I feed him?

catherine

November 30, 2015  |  3:k PM
nancy our betta likes to be petted as well...we love our spunky

Nancy

November 30, 2015  |  3:k PM
I just got my third Betta about three weeks ago. He is a half moon double tail. He is white with some blue and he has red fins. His name is Mr Bubbles. Loves to be petted. My other two lived about four and a half years. Soooo fun!

kasandra

November 25, 2015  |  1:k AM
Can Betta's eat cockroaches and other bugs will it hurt them if they eat them. My daughter has 1 and we wanna know if it would hurt them if they do.

Blough

November 23, 2015  |  7:k PM
You should not put bettas in with gold fish. Gold fish like colder water then bettas do. Bettas can survive this, but it isn't good for their immune system.

Kristian

November 23, 2015  |  5:k PM
my Betta`s name is Blue .He seams to hide from my brother and sister.How can I prove they mean no harm?

Dakota

November 20, 2015  |  11:k PM
Hi,I've had my fish for over a year now and he has just recently started this new thing. He makes this knocking sound and I'm not sure what it means. Anyone know?

Emilia

November 19, 2015  |  6:k PM
My fish LOVES his Lillypad!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Gregoria

November 18, 2015  |  2:k PM
I would like to know why my Betta fish has something white around his eyes . Is he sick ?

Dani

November 14, 2015  |  3:k PM
I have a better in a 175 gal tank with many other fish and ghost shrimp. This is the second beta I've had in a community tank and have had no problems. I've had many betas over the years and they always do great. The last one lasted about 5 years.

Elizabeth adams

November 9, 2015  |  11:k AM
I have a betta fish named cc I bought him freeze dried bloodworms how often should I feed him them?

Joseph

November 8, 2015  |  4:k PM
I moved last week and forgot my betta in my empty cooler. The weather was hot in the day and cold at night. 7 days later we found him alive and well.

Amy Huddleston

November 7, 2015  |  2:k PM
How often should I feed my betta bloodlines?

Lisa

November 6, 2015  |  9:k PM
I have a blue betta named Sayulita. I've had him since last March. Lately, he comes to the surface to eat and then looks like he is falling down to the bottom of the tank? I'm not sure what is wrong or if his behavior is normal? Please help.

puzzzled

November 5, 2015  |  3:k AM
i have three male bettas, each in a glass vessel and each with a plant. ONE of the vessels keeps getting a 'film' on the top of the water - the other two remain clear when i clean & change the water.
i can't figure why the one gets the film on the water!?!?!?
the other two have the same plants etc. - NO FILM!!!
ANY IDEAS???

Claire Age 8

November 4, 2015  |  7:k PM
No they do not...But I wouldn't put them in a tank together.

Mary Ellen

November 4, 2015  |  12:k AM
I bought my first betta which is a half moon 11/2
Blue and green, BEAUTIFUL in color
I placed a small conk shell in the tank, I boiled a few shells and one small rock first. Checked the tank no where to be found than I saw it's tail inside the shell which the fish was wedged. I took the shell out of the tank and did not know what I was going to do next. My husband was asleep I yelled for him I really must of sounded like a mad person. He said the fish is dead. I didn't want to believe it. So he put the shell in a towel and used a meat pounder and broke the shell. I opened the towel and seen the fish just laying there and I touched it and it started to flop, so I threw it back in the tank.
It is breathing heavy but gets a little fisty than goes to the bottom of the tank to rest. It is one hour now and it is still alive. I really named it Buddy but my DAUGHTER said toname it Hammer. Can you imagine how that must of felt wedged in the shell like that, but the conk did have a tiny opening so I am thinking that is how it was able to breath. But than to be pounded with a meat pounder. Wow what a miracle.

Mikey

November 2, 2015  |  10:k PM
Jay, the Betta is a tropical fish. It enjoys water between 72-82 degrees. Cold water makes it lathargic and will suppress its immune system making it prone to sickness. Also if they water temp is changing frequently that adds a bit of stress on the fish. I'd recommend a heater for your tank.

Jay

November 1, 2015  |  10:k PM
I just bought my first betta, it is light and dark blue so pretty, so will they die with slightly cold water? my room gets kinda chill at night

dude

October 30, 2015  |  8:k PM
The name betta actually comes from the Malay word "betah", which means 'persistent', 'hardy' referring to its fighting nature, and also it's high tolerance to water quality that is usually uninhabitable to other fishes.

Lee

October 28, 2015  |  2:k PM
worried about my purple beta, has stopped eating and hides amoung the prayer plant roots at the top,

Lee

October 28, 2015  |  2:k PM
i have a beta purple colored fish, it is not eating and keeps hiding up topside in the plant roots, wondering if it has sbd? what is it and can it be treated ? fearful it is going to die

catherine

October 26, 2015  |  7:k PM
Sandy...our betta is once again going to travel from Maine to South Carolina...he does a good job, but I worry...love checking into the hotels with our Spunky.....LOL

haven

October 24, 2015  |  4:k PM
What will happen if they have oxygen in the water.

haven

October 24, 2015  |  4:k PM
What will happen if they have oxygen in the water.

haven

October 24, 2015  |  4:k PM
What will happen if they have oxygen in the water.

romad

October 23, 2015  |  7:k PM
I love bettas and angelfish but obviously they don't go well together. I only have one tank now but eventually, I'll be getting another, larger one. I just started adding more plants to my tank too which naturally keeps the ammonia and nitrate levels down. plantedtank.net helped out a lot but strangely I got a lot of bad information on bettas at bettafish.com. It's a horrible resource! Just check it out to see how many people fight, give you bad information and so on. Yuck.

Catherine

October 23, 2015  |  10:k AM
Davina...have you read up on Beta Fish...no, you cannot put a female in...plz do some research

Davina

October 22, 2015  |  7:k PM
What if I put a female in.

catherine

October 22, 2015  |  8:k AM
Davaina NO you cannot

Davina

October 21, 2015  |  11:k PM
I have a dark blue betta fish, I was wondering if you can put another fish in it to keep it company.

Thanks

Amy Huddleston

October 20, 2015  |  10:k PM
I'm getting my first betta fish next week.I was just wondering how well the vacation feeders work.if I am gone for a week

BW

October 17, 2015  |  11:k AM
I bought a red Betta about 4 weeks ago put him in a 35 gal. tank Dueing great.Comes to the side when I turn on the light to feed him
lives with a 6 in Plecostomus

betta

October 17, 2015  |  6:k AM
bettas are great fish for people and they are beautiful

Patti

October 16, 2015  |  3:k PM
This message is for Alene. Some Beta's love to jump . Your fish may have done that . I had one that jumped out while cleaning his tank and went straight down the drain . Another jumped on the floor and it killed him . That is probably how you lost yours.

Lizeth

October 15, 2015  |  7:k PM
I have a girl and a boy, but the girl started to fight him and he's in really bad shape. I would like to know how I could help him

Phyllis Murray

October 13, 2015  |  9:k AM
I have 25 male Bettas in my 55 gallon community tank with 4 Angelfish and they are peaceful and have NEVER FOUGHT or even challenged each other, they just swim away in different directions if they get close to another. Nothing is more stunning and beautiful than a tank of gorgeous boys, they fill my heart with joy every day.

Naomi

October 13, 2015  |  7:k AM
Female betta s can live to gather in a permid
Shape can't they

Lisa

October 5, 2015  |  9:k AM
I have a beautiful blue Betta......I swear it knows when it's time to eat. It goes right to the front of the bowl and wiggles while I get out the worms!!! This is my 3rd. They last a long time.....fun to watch they make a good conversation piece.

catherine

October 4, 2015  |  1:k PM
Sinbad...yes, your fish should be in a much larger tank...we have ours in a 2 1/2 gal tank and that even seems small, we also have a filter and heater....beta's are very smart, ours responds well to us, is very inter active, happy and lots of bubbles...he even lets us pet him....we have had Spunky since March and he traveled from South Carolina to Maine with us with no problems....they are such a joy and do know who we are..please get him a bigger tank

Sinbadll

October 4, 2015  |  1:k PM
I have a Betta fish-Iridescent, cuz he is a shimmery blue and green with brilliant red streaks- he is about 2 inches in body and another inch for its tail fin. ive put him in a quarter gallon fish bowl.. hes been making a bubble nest lately. Eating the pellets. responds to my voice and my face. hes been with me for a day and a half now.
do i need to provide a bigger bowl for him? 1/2 gallon, perhaps?
Thank you

Steve

September 29, 2015  |  9:k AM
Gurman, I'm pretty sure you're not supposed to ride them.

jaun

September 28, 2015  |  6:k PM
my fish died last night becase his water was to cold

Catherine

September 27, 2015  |  8:k AM
Elizabeth, our fish makes the Maine/South Carolina journey with us and does very well, better than me worrying about him...the looks we get at the hotels when we are checking in with our fish (Spunky) in toe...also, he loves to be petted.....quite the personality and interacts very well.

elizabeth

September 27, 2015  |  7:k AM
Joe, my fish...living since March 2015... he has grown really big. Almost 4 inches and his veil tails are huge. He travels with me in the car to Lubec, Me, Boothbay Harbor, Me, Pa, NY, NC. He seems to be a good passenger. The drive doesn't bother him. I can't leave him at home because he requires daily feeding so he has to travel with me... kind of interesting to see others react to friend I bring along...

gurman

September 26, 2015  |  6:k PM
Mine died after 3 mounts

gurman

September 26, 2015  |  6:k PM
Mine died after 3 mounts

Al Yapjoco

September 25, 2015  |  7:k PM
I have 3 Beta but they are separate aquarium. The aquarium that I have had a filter. They are like waterfalls and the water goes from one to another. I bought this in pet store and they told me, It's alright as long as the water doesn't move that much. I was also asking if I could have light in the aquarium. That's my question. Is it alright to have lighting out side the aquarium?

my name is Mike

September 24, 2015  |  7:k PM
Is it okay to have a aerator in your betta tank

Catherine

September 23, 2015  |  2:k PM
Can anyone tell me if it is ok to pet your betta...mine seems to like it, but my husband said it is not a good idea as they have a film or something on their bodies that should not be rubbed off....never heard of that,,,,but any help would be appreciated. Thanks

Alyssa

September 20, 2015  |  11:k AM
So a lot of people are saying that you can't put betta's with other fish, even if they are female. I have 3 females in a tank with 7 guppies, 2 danios, 2 algae eaters, a green cory and a tetra and all of my fish seem fine. If you do put more than one female betta in a tank then do not worry if one starts flaring her gills, my halfmoon is flaring her gills at my 2 veils but she's only doing this because she's notifying them that she's the alpha and she's in charge, but this will not go on forever for those of you concerned. They eventually stop because the other betta's know that she's in charge. If you already have a couple of females together and get a new one and put it in the tank then this behavior will start up again but eventually it will stop for they will either have a new alpha, or the alpha that is already in charge will let the new fish know that she's the alpha and she is in charge. Hope this helps for some of you and also if you don't know how to tell females from males, males have big vibrant tails while females have short fins and aren't as vibrant as males. Once again hope this helps. :)

Deb

September 18, 2015  |  8:k AM
I bought a beauty, called sunkissed, for in the center of its tail is a yellow and orange mix with the blue, green and a little red... I put him in a large vase, with water Lily on top.. Shld I put a plant or cave in bottom for him? He seems very happy to be in a bigger area.... Already making a nest.... Ready to eat every morning and nite, I give him 3 to 4 pellets in the am, which he eats very quickly, I have frozen blood worms but haven't given them to him yet because what I've been reading, recommends live blood worms..... Also hard to find a turkey baster in VT. ALSO wonder if I shld but a floating thermometer??? Any Answers greatly appreciated....TY

Deb

September 18, 2015  |  8:k AM
I bought a beauty, called sunkissed, for in the center of its tail is a yellow and orange mix with the blue, green and a little red... I put him in a large vase, with water Lily on top.. Shld I put a plant or cave in bottom for him? He seems very happy to be in a bigger area.... Already making a nest.... Ready to eat every morning and nite, I give him 3 to 4 pellets in the am, which he eats very quickly, I have frozen blood worms but haven't given them to him yet because what I've been reading, recommends live blood worms..... Also hard to find a turkey baster in VT. ALSO wonder if I shld but a floating thermometer??? Any Answers greatly appreciated....TY

Deb

September 18, 2015  |  8:k AM
I bought a beauty, called sunkissed, for in the center of its tail is a yellow and orange mix with the blue, green and a little red... I put him in a large vase, with water Lily on top.. Shld I put a plant or cave in bottom for him? He seems very happy to be in a bigger area.... Already making a nest.... Ready to eat every morning and nite, I give him 3 to 4 pellets in the am, which he eats very quickly, I have frozen blood worms but haven't given them to him yet because what I've been reading, recommends live blood worms..... Also hard to find a turkey baster in VT. ALSO wonder if I shld but a floating thermometer??? Any Answers greatly appreciated....TY

Dot

September 17, 2015  |  10:k AM
Goldfish will the fins off your Betta! Not Good!!!

Veronica

September 14, 2015  |  2:k AM
Betta's do not eat other fish, they kill fish for sport. Meaning it is fun for them. Betta's cannot be in with ANY other fish because no matter the look or size they will attack them, so you will either lose your betta or you'll lose your other fish. They have to be alone.

John

September 12, 2015  |  9:k PM
On the question "can bettas live with other fish"? It depends on what the fish looks like. They will attack other fish that are flashy similar to themselves. It is a Territorial thing.

Anto

September 10, 2015  |  4:k AM
I love this fish, now, this fish become the most famous fish because of become the official wallpaper for Apple iPhone 6s.

deep

September 9, 2015  |  11:k AM
Betta can't eat other fishes....

Christine G.

September 8, 2015  |  10:k AM
I got my male Betta, "Troubadour" about a month ago. He is alone in a 2.5 gallon tank with plenty of room to swim with places to hide among the decorative plantings. I feed him 2x a day and he always wants more! In fact when he sees me he goes crazy because he knows its feeding time. I have a heater in his tank and the water is filtered to keep him happy. I clean his tank with warm water 1x a week and he is constantly making bubble nests.

Catherine

September 7, 2015  |  8:k AM
Sue: I would have to strongly disagree with you, we feed our betta a couple of pellets twice a day and rarely and I mean rarely have to change his tank water....the last time we changed it was 2 months ago and it is still nearly crystal clear.....

shaquita

September 7, 2015  |  1:k AM
I just got a betta fish an i swe eggs in the tank.

shaquita

September 7, 2015  |  1:k AM
I just got a betta fish an i swe eggs in the tank.

Sue

September 7, 2015  |  12:k AM
Bettas are getting over fed. They should be fed 2-3 times a Week. No more than they can eat in 2 minutes. The companies just want to sell more food. Over feeding can quickly lead to a dirtier tank which is very unhealthy for them.

Robert

September 4, 2015  |  4:k PM
I have three male betas ... red, white & blue!
RED = FIGARO; WHITE = POSIEDON & BLUE = INDIGO
I have FIGARO in a rectangle glass container - he is 'trained' to go to a specific corner in front of the tank to be fed! All three come over to greet me when I walk over to them, but FIGARO goes over to the front corner and waits for me to drop in his diner! I LOVE IT!

Thomas

September 3, 2015  |  9:k PM
I want to know the beta fishes tank six to 7 o'clock What water is cloudy what that. Cause of

Corina

September 2, 2015  |  9:k PM
I have a red one and a blue one.
Keep them separate because betas love being alone.
They like caves or somewhere they can hide.
Don't over feed your fish, I'd say 3 in the morning when I wake up and 3 at night before I go to bed.
If they stop being active it's because the fish is sick or just plain bored.
They love treats : blood worms live or dried
I love my Charles Haze & my Spike!
#betalove

Kristina

August 31, 2015  |  11:k AM
I love my three fish but so how one of then passed away I the old age

Alene

August 31, 2015  |  8:k AM
We have a betta that jest vanish here one day gone the next it's the second one to do that why is this happening can they vanish when they die

beach babe

August 30, 2015  |  5:k PM
I had a betta that lived for 9 years. He was the coolest fish lived on my top of my speaker and it gave him stimulation that he liked, I believe in a little sunshine nearby the fish. And people feed your bettas live blood worms (which are tiny red worms that bettas love to attack and eat) instead of pellets and cubes or dried worms. Boring to the fish!!!! I know this.... you have to buy the worms 3 times a month and keep them refridgerated which kinda sucks. But your betta will love you for it. My icki used to hang from my rear view window as we made the journey from Cali to Las Vegas several ti es and he loved it. Also steak they love!!!!

Darcy

August 30, 2015  |  11:k AM
everyone who says its ok to feed your betta 5 peices a day: DO NOT feed it 5 pebbles a day. They can become very stuffed. You should feed them 2 in the morning before you go to school or work or if you wake up. Then you should feed it 1 Peice in the after noon. Like 3 or 2 in the after noon. He will trust you and if you trust him, maybe he'll eat it off of your finger :)

Veronica

August 30, 2015  |  1:k AM
Catherine, I was actually instructed by the pet store I purchased my little Eclypse and Prometheus from, to allow the bettas to "exercise" their fins. My fish tank is a single tank with a divider. There is a blue piece that is removable so the bettas can see each other allowing them to exercise, but also a clear addition to said divider thus, preventing the two from striking one another. It is not cruel, it in necessary and also very good for the betta to exercise his fins.

Catherine Reed

August 29, 2015  |  4:k PM
Thank you Tara.....he see's himself enough at nite with the light on in the tank.,,no more mirrows

Tara

August 29, 2015  |  12:k PM
Catherine, it is cruel. Bettas do not like other bettas and when they see the mirror they think it's another betta your fish will become very stressed out. You need to stop doing that. Or else the fish may not last a lot longer

angel

August 28, 2015  |  2:k AM
Fish

Kayli VanWey

August 27, 2015  |  3:k PM
Can you put any other fish with a Beta?

Q

August 25, 2015  |  7:k PM
Are beta fish is about three years old he's changing color getting a lighter and he keeps trying to jump out of the tank I think he's dying he's also not eating and staying at the bottom of the bowl what do we do

jodi

August 20, 2015  |  11:k PM
Actually, some betta are uncomfortable in very large tanks. I had a ten gallon with a divider, a male on one side and a female on the other (i was trying to breed them) and even after WEEKS in the large tank, my male stayed in one back corner. He was previously very active and friendly, would follow me when I walked past and greet me with a wiggle when I stopped at the bowl. He would even take food from my fingers. That stopped when I put him in the large tank, but as soon as I put him back in his little bowl he was back to his awesome self. I think (depending on the age of the fish and the size of tank is used to) each fish is unique. Midnight (my male betta) wasn't comfortable in any tank larger than a gallon. My female, however, happily claimed the ENTIRE ten gallons (who knew there were diva bettas?) and only allowed other fish I put in a tiny area... by the way, midnight was over 8 years old when he died!!

beach babe

August 20, 2015  |  11:k PM
The best thing to feed your bettas and what they love the most is real meat. Like purchasing real live blood worms and keeping the worms in your fridgerator. Last a week to ten days, because they will spoil and die after that period of time.

Debbîe braaten

August 20, 2015  |  1:k PM
What does a female betta look like we have a male and a female when pregnant

Debbîe braaten

August 20, 2015  |  1:k PM
What does a female betta look like we have a male and a female when pregnant

Echo

August 19, 2015  |  11:k AM
Hi I am trying to breed my male and female betta fish. They get along but I am too nervous to leave them together. The male is sweet...same with female but the male's eyes are starting to get cloudy looking things on his eyes.. Please help.

Vera Radziszewski

August 19, 2015  |  9:k AM
My male Betta is just floating around and being lethargic. When we first got him, he seemed to be happy-go-lucky, now he seems bummed. Any advice?

Kelcey

August 16, 2015  |  3:k PM
I just bought a small female (not baby but not full grown) veiltail on Friday. She was very still and lazy theu saturday afternoon though towards the night ans today she is more active. What I did notice is she is having trouble eating the pellets. I don't know if they are too big for her mouth because half or more times that she goes to eat a pellet it's like she can't suck it in and it drops and sometimes she swims half way down and tries and fails to get it, and other times she just lets it fall. Are there flakes to try? Is this normal for small ones? Should I crush up the pellets making it easier for her to eat? Thanks in advance!

Vicki

August 14, 2015  |  2:k PM
I have a male betta and he has got so he stay at the bottom of the fish tank it a 2.5 gal tank so I have taken him out of the tank and put him in treated fresh water about 1/2 gal with filter i feed him pellets and blood worms as a treat but I have notice he looks like he dying his middle looks dark with a very small dark place on his side i have had him over a year. can some one please help me i don't want him to die

Matt Key

August 11, 2015  |  12:k PM
Don´t have gold fish together with betta fish in one tank. For gold fish is better to have colder water, betta fish needs slighly more. I will bet that tail of gold fish would cause stress to betta.

Adriana

August 10, 2015  |  5:k PM
I just bought a Berta and put it in a fish tank along with two other fish yesterday and waking up today I realized that my betta no longer has its long tail and is missing a fin and immediately took it out and put it inside another tank. Can someone please tell me what happened and what I can do to make it fully healthy again?

harley

August 10, 2015  |  3:k PM
what are the long skinny things on the betta fish? someone told me that it is how it feels tings or how it fights