With their long flowing tails and vibrant colors, it's no wonder that bettas are one of the most popular fish for beginner aquarists. They are easy to care for and make a great ornamental addition to any desk, kid's room or living space. While female bettas are not as aggressive and can sometimes live together peacefully, male bettas are aggressive toward each other. Therefore, house only one male with smaller, peaceful fish in a community aquarium, or keep him alone.
Bettas gulp air from the water's surface to help them breathe. You will see your betta slowly swimming toward the top of your aquarium or bowl. They also tend to rest near the bottom. As carnivores, bettas eat mostly animal matter, including prepared foods and fresh, freeze dried or frozen foods. Choose a tropical flake or pellet food. Feed according to the directions on the packaging.
Diet: Flake, Frozen, Freeze-dried
Maximum Size: 2-3 inches
Water Temperature: 75-82 degrees F
Swimming Level: All
Experience Level: Intermediate
Tank Setup: Ideal tank size: 3+ gallons with a filter. Prefer to be alone, but can do well with small community fish. They will not do well with any type of gourami or other bettas.
Note: Pet availability is seasonal. State and local regulations may vary. Pricing may vary by store location. PetSmart stores cannot match the price above for this pet. Ask a store associate for details.
LEARN ABOUT THE BETTA:
Common Name: Betta
Scientific Name: Betta splendens
Compatibility: More than one female can sometimes be kept in a peaceful community setting. Avoid fin-nipping fishes. Males, however, should either be housed as single specimens, or as the only male of its species in a peaceful community tank.
Natural Range and Habitat: Thailand-Cambodia: Moderately decorate with live plants, rocks and driftwood.
Breeding: The male has the long flowing fins and the female has very short round fins. The male will create a bubble nest at the top of the aquarium, and the eggs will develop in there until they hatch in about 24 hours.
Additional Comments: They also have the ability to breathe air from the surface through their labyrinth, which acts like lungs.
Vet Assured Promise:
All pets purchased at PetSmart are raised under our exclusive Vet Assured program and come with a 14-day satisfaction guarantee. Vet Assured is a program designed by PetSmart veterinarians to improve the health and well-being of our pets. The program sets standards for the care of our pets by our live animal partners and store associates and establishes strict standards for the monitoring and prevention of common illnesses found in pets. PetSmart makes a significant investment in the care of our pets and it is apparent in the quality and comfort of the pets in our stores. However, if your pet becomes ill during this initial 14-day period, or if you're not satisfied with your pet for any reason, PetSmart will gladly replace the pet or refund the purchase price. Please keep your sales receipt and return the pet to the store where it was purchased if needed.
