Ah, the betta! That little fighting fish that makes aquarists' hearts skip a beat. As a pet shop manager for over 10 years, I can tell you that it's one of the stars of our aquariums. But how much does it cost to buy this aquatic jewel? Let's dive into the murky waters of betta prices together!
Betta: a fish with many facets and prices
Le betta fish price varies considerably depending on a number of factors. Let me explain this in detail, so you won't be surprised when you get to the checkout!
Common varieties: an affordable budget
For a classic male betta, expect to pay an average of €7 to €8. That's the basic price for this little aquatic jewel. But be warned, specimens can be found for as little as €5 if you have a good eye and a bit of luck. These prices generally apply to the most common varieties, which are easy to find in pet shops.
Rare varieties: when prices soar
Now hang on to your landing net! Rarer varieties such as Crowntail, Halfmoon and Plakat can easily fetch more than €20. And that's just for starters... I've even heard of a betta selling for over €1,400 in Thailand! Well, that was an exceptional specimen, but it gives you an idea of the price range.
Females: the economical option
If your purse is a little dry, you should know that females are generally less expensive than males. They are just as charming, but a little less flamboyant. It's a good compromise if you want to embark on the betta adventure without breaking the bank too much.
Choosing your betta: a well-considered investment
Before falling for the first betta that comes along, there are a few points to consider. After all, you don't choose an aquatic companion lightly!
The ideal home: comfort at a reasonable price
A betta needs at least 15-20 litres of living space. You don't need a gigantic aquarium, but make sure it's well equipped:
- A heater to keep the water at between 24 and 28°C
- A suitable filter to keep the water clean (I recommend you take a look at this article on choosing a filter)
- A few plants so that it can hide
All this comes at a cost, but it's a necessary investment for the well-being of your fish.
Food: a budget not to be neglected
Bettas are carnivores and love insects and worms. Make sure you budget for quality food. As with us, a good diet is the basis of good health!
Cohabitation: beware of misplaced savings
If you think you're going to save money by putting several male bettas together, forget it right now! These little guys are very territorial. Believe me, I've already seen customers come back in a huff after trying the experiment. It's like trying to Differentiating between male and female molly fishIt takes a bit of experience!
| Type of Betta | Average price | Special features |
|---|---|---|
| Common betta | 5-8€ | Easy to find, ideal for beginners |
| Betta Crowntail | 20-30€ | Tapered fins, royal appearance |
| Betta Halfmoon | 25-35€ | Half-moon fins, very popular |
| Betta Plakat | 20-30€ | Short fins, similar to the wild type |
Betta: a long-term investment
When we talk about betta fish priceBut you need to think beyond the initial purchase. These little aquatic warriors can live from 2 to 5 years in an aquarium. It's a long-term commitment!
I remember a customer who came to buy a betta for his son. He thought it would be a "disposable" fish that would only last a few months. What a surprise when I explained to him that his new aquatic companion could be there for many years!
Here are a few points to consider for the long term:
- Food costs over several years
- Occasional replacement of equipment (filters, heating)
- Any veterinary costs (yes, fish can get sick too!)
- The time you'll need to devote to aquarium maintenance
In the end, the purchase price of the betta is only a small part of the total investment. But believe me, when you see your little fighter swimming proudly in its aquarium, you won't regret a penny!
Remember, a well-maintained betta is a happy betta. And a happy betta is a happy aquarist!
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