What kind of food do bettas eat?

Bettas, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are carnivorous fish and in the wild, they primarily feed on insects and small invertebrates floating on or near the water surface. In the aquarium hobby, bettas can be fed various prepared betta-specific foods, such as:

- Betta pellets: Small, nutritionally balanced pellets specifically designed for bettas.

- Betta flakes: Flakes that contain a variety of ingredients like shrimp, krill, and spirulina.

- Freeze-dried foods: These include freeze-dried insects like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.

- Live foods: Occasional treats of live foods like baby brine shrimp, small earthworms, or chopped-up feeder fish can be a great source of protein and enrichment.

- Betta treats: Special treats for bettas often containing a mix of ingredients like freeze-dried krill, vegetables, or fish eggs.

Feeding Guidelines:

- Bettas have small stomachs, so it's essential to feed them in moderation. A good rule of thumb is to provide them with an amount of food that can be consumed within a few minutes once or twice daily.

- Variety in their diet is important for their overall well-being. Feeding a mix of different types of food can ensure they are getting a wide range of nutrients.

- Avoid overfeeding, as it can lead to water pollution, constipation, and other health problems.

- Remove any uneaten food from the aquarium to maintain water quality.

Tips:

- Feed bettas in a separate feeding container to prevent them from gulping air while feeding at the surface.

- Soaking freeze-dried foods before feeding can prevent digestive issues.

- Live foods should be carefully quarantined before feeding to avoid introducing parasites or illnesses into the aquarium.

- Bettas may occasionally fast for a day or two without any harm, so don't be alarmed if they occasionally skip a meal.

Remember that these are general guidelines and needs can vary based on individual fish, so observe your betta's behavior and adjust the diet accordingly.