Betta+Fish

=The Betta Page = For general info on betta care, forums for discussion, and pictures of fish, please see: [|www.bettafish.com]

//Betta Fish are wonderful little pets, especially if you have only a limited amount of space. However, there is a lot of misunderstandings in regard to the proper care these little guys need. This wiki page is designed to help you more clearly understand betta fish, and what care is needed to keep your betta happy and healthy! //

= = toc =** Basic Betta Tale Types **=


 * Veil Tail: This is the trademark betta tale, with the characteristic, ponytail-like droop. Veil Tails are the most widely available of the many tail types these fish display.


 * Halfmoon: This tail type is gaining popularity, and can be distinguished by a full 180-degree spread of fins and tails.




 * Crowntail: A newer variety, these fish display a "fringed" look on the ends of their fins


 * Pla Kat: These shorter-finned fish do not lack the color their longer-finned cousins show off. However, they are known to be the most active and aggressive of the tail types, and a lid must be provided for their home due to a love of jumping

=** Basic Betta Colors **=

Betta fish come in a variety of colors, many of which can be found at local pet shops. While some are more common than others, such as blue, the colors of the fish's scales can range all over the color wheel Some colors include:


 * Blue
 * Red
 * White
 * Orange
 * Black
 * Green
 * Clear (Cellophane)
 * marbled

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 * A more in-depth discussion of the many other tail types, colors, and patterns can be found here:

= Betta Fish Housing and Set Up =

While most pet store workers will tell you that betta fish can successfully be kept in a small, unheated fishbowl, the fish will not thrive, and will be lethargic and more prone to disease. A tank, with a size of AT LEAST 1 gallon ( 2.5 is better) will provide a better home for your fish. A heater is also necessary, as bettas are tropical fish. Filters are optional, but if you choose to go without one, make sure you are adamant about keeping the water clean.

For more info regarding tank set up, please see [] = Betta Fish Water = As mentioned before, contrary to popular belief, bettas are tropical fish, and therefore need the water to be kept between 72 to 80 degrees F (76-78 is ideal). When it comes to water changes, the bigger your tank, the less frequently a water change is required. For a 1-2.5 gallon tank, some believe that 100% water changes every few days is needed to keep the water ammonia-free. Others believe that partial water changes suffice. When your tank exceeds 5 gallons, weekly partial water changes should be enough to keep your water clean!

For more info regarding betta fish water, please see:

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= Betta Fish Feeding = There are numerous types of food available for betta fish,i ncluding both live food and dry food. As a new fishkeeper, the easiest way to provide nutrition for your fish is to purchase quality dry food from the pet store. Remember, bettas are CARNIVORES, and traditional tropical fish food is vegetarian-based. Remember to look for food labeled "for bettas" specifically. It is also very important that you do not overfeed your betta fish, which can lead to swim bladder disease and other betta sicknesses. Feed your fish only what he can eat in 2-3 minutes, then remove the rest of the food using a net. If this food is not removed, it can decompose in the water, adding to the ammonia levels. If your betta looks bloated, it may be beneficial to refrain from feeding for a day or two, and to let his digestive system clear out. For more information regarding betta fish feeding, please see:

[] =Betta Fish Disease Information=

For information regarding the diagnosing and treatment of betta fish diseases, please see the following links: [] [] []

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