Betta Care Sheet
Betta splendens
The Siamese fighting fish — one of the most recognizable aquarium fish. Males have spectacular flowing fins and vibrant colors. Can be kept in community tanks with care.
76–82°F
6.5–7.5
5 gallons
3–5 years
2.5–3 inches (6–7 cm)
1 male only (females can be kept in groups of 5+ — 'sorority')
Moderate difficulty. Males build bubble nests. Condition with high-protein foods, introduce female briefly. Male guards the eggs and fry.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivore — betta pellets, frozen/freeze-dried bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia. Avoid generic tropical flakes. Feed 2-3 pellets twice daily.
Natural Habitat
Native to shallow rice paddies, floodplains, and slow-moving streams in Thailand and Southeast Asia. Labyrinth organ allows them to breathe atmospheric air.
Care Tips
NEVER keep two males together — they will fight to the death
Despite myths, bettas need at least 5 gallons — not a tiny bowl
Prefer calm water with little surface agitation (labyrinth breathers)
Add Indian almond leaves for tannins that promote health
Can coexist with peaceful bottom-dwellers like corydoras and snails
Tank-Mate Compatibility
Compatible Species (3)
Use Caution (19)
Incompatible (4)
Guppy
Bettas often attack guppies, mistaking long fins for rival males.
Dwarf Gourami
Both are labyrinth fish and may see each other as rivals.
Tiger Barb
Tiger barbs will relentlessly nip at betta fins.
Goldfish
Different temperature needs and bettas may be harassed.