https://www.chewy.com/education/fish/betta-fish/how-to-keep-your-betta-fish-healthy-and-happy
*Betta fish are vibrant and full of personality - but they require specific care. The Betta Fish Education Hub covers solo tank setups, heating needs, diet, enrichment, and common health concerns to help your betta live a long, healthy life.
Among the more than 70 species in the Betta genus, the most popular and widely kept in home aquariums is the colorful and eye catching betta fish. Native to Thailand - formerly Siam - bettas earned the nickname “Siamese fighting fish” due to their naturally territorial and aggressive behavior, especially between males.
Often recommended for beginners, one betta can be kept alone in relatively smaller tanks -At least 5 gallons in size. While they are relatively easy to care for, they still need a properly cycled and well equipped tank, along with consistent maintenance to ensure clean, healthy water conditions.
A happy and healthy betta will show off vivid colors, smooth scales, and full, intact fins. You will also see active swimming and a good appetite. Conversely, a betta that hides often or stays motionless at the bottom of the tank may be stressed or unwell.
Bettas can live in tap water, but it must be treated first. Tap water often contains chlorine, chloramine, and heavy metals such as copper, lead, and zinc - all of which can be harmful to tropical fish. A quality water conditioner is essential to make the water safe and suitable for your betta.
Although their depth perception is limited, even in bright conditions, bettas are excellent at detecting colors. They have monocular vision, which means each of their eyes sees a different image and this helps them explore and understand their surroundings in a unique way.
Chewy editorial team’s comprehensive betta fish care guide provides all the essential information you need to be a knowledgeable and caring owner of this stunning freshwater fish.