What Is the Life Expectancy of a Male Betta?

The lifespan for the average male betta fish is around three years. The oldest a betta fish will live is five years. Although reaching the five year mark is rare , there are different steps you can take to help length the betta's life.

  1. Tank Size

    • A good environment is a tank that is about a gallon or bigger. Smaller containers will shorten their life expectancy. The 12 oz containers that the pet stores sell bettas in is simply not enough space for the betta to remain healthy.

    Change the Water

    • Frequent water changes with proper chemical balancing, and minimal salts will help the betts live longer. The most common sicknesses for betta fish occur due to bad water, so make sure that the tank stays clean.

    Reduce Stress

    • A tank with some fake plants or rocks to help them hide will help makes them happier by allowing them to have places to hide. This will reduce stress. Stress can also be induced by medications, so make sure that the water stays clean to avoid sickness and the need for stressful medications. Also, containers that are too small for betas to swim around in will begin to stress them. This will shorten their life expectancy.

    Diet

    • Make sure that you are feeding your betta high quality pellets. Also, try and place frozen feed in the tank a couple of times a week. This will make sure that they are getting all the nutrients that they need. Small bloodworms are always an option.

    Temperature

    • Make sure that the betta tank does not get too cold during the winter or at night. This can often be fixed with a simple desk lamp or a small heater. If the water temperature drops too low it can cause your betta to get sick.