Betta

Betta splendens

Also known as: Siamese Fighting Fish

The iconic labyrinth fish — males must be kept alone, and they breathe air from the surface.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

76–82°F

pH

6–7.5

Hardness

3–15 dGH

Max size

2.8 in

Min tank

5 gal

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Social

Solitary

Swim level

All

Diet

Carnivore

Care level

Beginner

Lifespan

3-5 years

Breeding

Bubble-nester

Suitability

Common

Origin

Thailand (Mekong basin)

Male bettas fight other males and flare at long-finned tankmates, so they are usually kept singly in a heated, gently filtered tank of at least five gallons. As labyrinth breathers they gulp air, so leave space between the water and the lid.