Le betta fishalso known as the fighter, is a fascinating aquarium inhabitant from South-East Asia. With its brilliant colours and majestic fins, it is an eye-catcher and a favourite with many aquarists. But behind this spectacular appearance lies a small creature with very specific needs. As an aquarium enthusiast and pet shop floor manager, I'm going to guide you through the secrets of successfully looking after your aquarium. betta fish in aquarium.
Tailor-made housing for your veteran
Let's start with the basics: the aquarium. Contrary to popular belief, the betta does not need an ocean to thrive. A volume of 15 to 30 litres is more than enough for a single individual. I've seen customers leave with gigantic aquariums, thinking they were doing the right thing. But believe me, your little warrior prefers a more intimate space!
Water temperature is crucial to your betta's well-being. These tropical fish like water temperatures of between 24 and 28°C. So heating is often necessary, especially in our parts of the world. Think of it as a little heating blanket for your scaly friend!
In terms of water quality, aim for a pH of between 6.5 and 7.5 and a hardness (GH) of between 5 and 20°. A appropriate filtration is essential to maintain healthy waterBut beware of the flow: the betta doesn't like strong currents. Imagine swimming against the Gulf Stream with your fins like a sail - not very pleasant, is it?
A decor to suit your taste
To make your betta feel like a fish in water (pardon the pun), offer it a varied décor:
- Natural or artificial plants
- Roots or smooth rocks to create hiding places
- A substrate as fine as sand to protect its delicate fins
Don't forget the floating plants! They remind the betta of its natural habitat and give it a place to rest close to the surface. It's also the perfect opportunity for them to build their famous nest of bubbles, a real marvel of aquatic architecture!
Lighting and safety
Moderate lighting, around 10 to 12 hours a day, is enough for your betta. Too much light could stress it, and you don't want a grumpy fighter, do you?
One last crucial point: cover your aquarium! The betta is a real little aquatic Houdini, capable of jumping out of the water. I've had panic-stricken customers tell me they've found their fish on the carpet. Believe me, it's an experience you'd rather avoid!
Living with a war veteran: cohabitation and diet
Now that we've created the perfect little nest for your betta, let's talk about its social life and eating habits. Spoiler alert: not the most sociable of fish!
A not-so-lonely loner
The betta is known for its territorial temperament and aggression towards its fellow males. That's where its nickname of "fighter" comes from. But make no mistake, this doesn't mean it's an aquatic tyrant!
It is perfectly capable of living in a community, provided you choose your companions carefully. Choose calm, colourful species. Brightly coloured fish or fish with long fins are likely to trigger its fighting instinct. It's a bit like putting two rival football fans in the same room on match night...
Here's a quick summary of potential flatmates for your betta:
| Good companions | What to avoid |
|---|---|
| Corydoras | Other male bettas |
| Neon lights | Guppys |
| Rasboras | Long-finned fish |
A carnivorous diet
As far as its diet is concerned, the betta is a real little carnivore. In the wild, it feasts on insects and small invertebrates. In the aquarium, you can offer it :
- Specific granules for betta
- Live food (daphnia, artemia)
- Frozen food
Be careful not to spoil it too much! A well-fed betta is a happy betta, but an overweight betta is a betta in danger. Believe me, I've seen bettas that looked more like footballs than fish...
And don't forget: vary the pleasures! Like us, bettas appreciate a varied menu. It's also an opportunity to differentiate between the food preferences of males and femalesas can be done with other species of fish.
Daily maintenance: your fighting routine
Now that your betta is well established and well fed, let's talk about day-to-day maintenance. Don't worry, it's not a mammoth task, just a few simple things you shouldn't neglect.
Water changes, your best ally
The key to a healthy aquarium is clean water. For your betta, plan regular partial water changes, around 20 to 30% per week. It's like giving your fish a weekly spring clean!
During these water changes, take the opportunity to :
- Gently clean the substrate with a siphon
- Check the condition of the plants and remove any dead leaves
- Monitor water temperature and parameters
Don't forget to treat the new water with a conditioner to remove chlorine and other harmful substances. Your betta will thank you for this fresh bath!
Observation, your secret for a betta in top form
As a pet shop floor manager and a great animal lover, I can only advise you to observe your betta regularly. Not only is it an enjoyable experience (these fish are true showmen ), but also crucial to its health.
Pay attention to :
- Behaviour: a fit betta is active and curious
- Appetite: refusing to eat may be a sign of illness
- The condition of its fins: damaged fins may indicate a problem.
If you notice anything unusual, don't hesitate to consult a specialist. Prevention is better than cure, as they say!
A companion for life
Now you know everything you need to know to give your dog the life of a king. betta fish in aquarium. With its flamboyant colours and unique personality, the betta is much more than just an ornamental fish. It's a real companion that, if properly cared for, can live up to 5 years!
Remember, every betta is unique. Some will be more sociable, others more shy. Get to know yours, adapt to its needs and you'll have a great aquatic adventure together. And who knows, maybe, like me, you'll end up with a whole army of fighters at home!
So, are you ready to dive into the adventure of the betta fish in aquarium ? Remember, a well-maintained aquarium is your guarantee of a happy, healthy betta. And a happy betta is a happy aquarist!
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