The betta fish is a wonderful choice if you are thinking of investing in a first aquarium fish. Also called Siamese Fighting Fish, betta fish are known for the way in which they puff themselves up when aggravated. The male betta fish is truly a site to behold. Their colorful scales and this act of puffing, utilized as a means of intimidating rival male betta or to impress females makes them a site to behold. When betta lay their eggs, they create bubble nests blown from their own saliva and are made for the sole purpose of hatching young.
A happy, healthy freshwater fish, the properly cared for betta fish can live between 4 and 6 years. The ideal environment for a betta fish is a 5 gallon tank, properly filtered and heated. it’s also important to provide your betta fish with a cover for its tank as they are fond of jumping and can easily jump out of their aquarium. Although you might see someone keep a betta in a fish tank or vase, you might not see the same betta the next time you visit – be warned. The betta fish is a tropical fish that prefers its water somewhere in the 78F range and a filtration system that won’t create overly strong movement of the water.
The betta fish diet is made up mostly of meats. You can feed them anything from frozen crayfish eggs, brine shrimp, or beef heart. Small amounts of lettuce or spinach can also be added to their diets for fiber, but you should avoid overfeeding your betta fish. If there is one thing to avoid, however, it is putting two male betta fish together. As stated previously, betta fish are fighters. Females will also fight females. Females and males have been known to fight, as well. If you must breed your bettas, introduce the female to the male by placing the female inside a tall jar and placing the jar inside the male fish’s tank. Proper care of your betta will ensure happiness and longevity in your pet fish.
