Betta care: myths and facts
A betta in a vase? Better not. We list the biggest misconceptions about the Siamese fighting fish, and explain what it does need.
With its long fins and bright colours, the Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens) is one of the most popular aquarium fish. Yet there are still many misconceptions about its care.
Myth: a betta can live in a vase
In nature, bettas live in shallow rice paddies and marshes, but those are much larger than a vase. Give it an aquarium of at least 20 litres with a heater and a filter with gentle flow.
Myth: it doesn’t need a heater
Bettas are tropical. Keep the temperature between 24 and 28 °C; in cold water it becomes listless and susceptible to disease.
Fact: males fight each other
Two males together will fight to the death; that is where the name comes from. So keep only one male per aquarium.
Fact: it also breathes air
With its labyrinth organ, the betta takes oxygen from the water surface. Leave an air gap between the water and the lid, and do use a lid: bettas can jump.
Tankmates
In a larger aquarium, a betta can live with calm species such as corydoras or harlequin rasboras. Avoid fin nippers such as tiger barbs, and brightly coloured, long-finned fish such as male guppies.