Bettas are among the most beautiful and personable fish in the hobby, and among the most misunderstood. The myth that they thrive in tiny bowls has led to countless short, stressful lives. Here's how to keep a betta truly thriving.
The Tank: Bigger Than You've Been Told
Despite the marketing, bettas are not bowl fish. They are tropical fish with real needs.
- Minimum 19L (5 gallons); more is better
- A gentle filter (bettas dislike strong currents)
- A heater: bettas are tropical and need 25–27°C
- A secure lid: bettas are accomplished jumpers
💡 Pro tip: A heated, filtered 19L+ tank is the difference between a betta surviving for a few months and thriving for 3–5 years.
Water Quality Is Everything
Bettas are often kept in unfiltered containers, which means toxic ammonia builds up fast. A properly cycled, filtered tank keeps ammonia at zero. Maintain a stable 25–27°C, ammonia and nitrite at 0ppm, and weekly 20–30% water changes.
Feeding
Bettas are carnivores and need protein-rich food. Feed a quality betta pellet as a staple, supplemented with the occasional frozen treat such as bloodworms or brine shrimp. Feed only what they eat in two minutes, once or twice a day; bettas are prone to overfeeding and bloating.
Tankmates and Temperament
Male bettas cannot be housed together; they will fight. In a larger community tank, peaceful, non-nippy tankmates (such as corydoras or snails) can work, but always avoid fin-nippers like tiger barbs and anything brightly coloured or long-finned that a betta might mistake for a rival.
Enrichment
Bettas are intelligent and curious. Give them gentle hiding spots, broad-leaved plants (live or silk, never sharp plastic that tears fins), and a resting ledge near the surface. A stimulated betta is far more active and colourful.
Signs of a Thriving Betta
- Vibrant, rich colour
- Active swimming and exploring
- Healthy appetite
- Flared, undamaged fins
- Building bubble nests, a sign of a happy, healthy male
Find betta-suitable tanks, gentle filters, and heaters in our Aquatics range.
