How to Take Care of Japanese Fighting Fish

Japanese fighting fish, more commonly known as Betta fish, are some of the most popular freshwater fish found in home aquariums. Originally native to Thailand and Cambodia, Betta fish are primarily carnivorous, and are notable for their intelligence and the ability to breathe oxygen from fresh air as well as water. Betta fish are colorful, hardy, adaptable and relatively easy to care for, and thus make excellent pets.

Things You'll Need

  • Fish food (pellets or live food)
  • Properly sized bowl or aquarium
  • Fresh water
  • Vented cover
  • Light/Heat source
  • Filtration system (optional)
  • Aquatic plants (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Feed your Betta fish a primarily meat based diet. Although they will graze on plant matter, these fish are surface feeding carnivores that need a steady supply of insect or animal protein to survive.

    • 2

      Use the largest tank practical for your budget and space limitations. Although Betta fish are frequently sold in small decorative bowls, they require substantially more space to live a healthy life. The water in small bowls becomes contaminated with waste products much faster, and this can significantly shorten the fish's life span.

    • 3

      Invest in a quality mechanical and biological filtration system. This keeps the water in your Bettas tank clean and fresh. Change your fish's water twice weekly if filters are not being used.

    • 4

      Protect your fish from significant changes in temperature and light. Betta fish are easily stressed by these changes and can suffer from numerous health problems as a result. Betta fish thrive in temperatures around 80 °F.

    • 5

      Vary your fish's diet by including live organisms such as brine shrimp or bloodworms.

    • 6

      Provide your Betta fish with a ventilated tank lid to allow heat and air exchange while preventing the fish from escaping and protecting it from household pets or other pests.

    • 7

      Add plants to your aquarium to improve the quality of the water. Plants act as natural filtration systems and provide your Betta with cover

    • 8

      Avoid using decorations, plants, or substrate with jagged edges. Betta fish have sensitive skin and fins that tear easily.

    • 9

      Interact with your fish regularly. Betta fish are social and quite intelligent, and will quickly become bored if not provided with regular stimulation. They frequently recognize their owners, and can even be taught simple games.