Betta fish are beautiful fish which come from tropical regions of Southeast Asia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Bangkok. They are also known as Siamese Fighting Fish, and because they do fight, only one male should be kept in a tank. An unusual fact about these fish is that in addition to having gills, they also have a labyrinth organ. This is a secondary breathing apparatus which allows them to breathe air from the surface of the water.

When choosing your fish, look for one that is in clean water, is active and alert, and has an overall healthy, clean appearance. Fish living in cloudy water or appearing to be lethargic are not good choices.

It is common to find Betta fish in small bowls. The water in these bowls can quickly become depleted of oxygen, but because they have the labyrinth organ, they can survive by rising to the top to breathe from the surface. It is however not recommended to keep them is such conditions. A one gallon bowl or tank is the minimum size that should be used. Your fish will be happier and healthier in an even larger setting.

Favorable temperature is important to the health of your Betta fish. If the temperature of the room where the fish are kept is not between 74 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit, you should buy a small heater. Do not use a heater in a tank or bowl smaller than two and a half gallons because this can be dangerous for both you and your fish.

When transferring your new fish to a new home, give them time to adjust to the new environment. It is recommended that you float the fish in the bag or container it was purchased in the new tank for at least 15 – 20 minutes. This will allow time to adjust to the new temperature and prevent the fish from going into shock.

Changing the water in your Betta tank is very important, and should be done once per week minimum. Two times per week is optimal. Filters can extend the time between cleanings, but they also disturb the water, which your fish may not like. When changing the water, it is recommended that either all of the water be replaced, or at least half of the water be replaced along with thorough vacuuming of the gravel. By doing this you will maintain a consistent level of water quality and prevent ammonia buildup.