Betta Fish Facts For Young And Old Betta Owners
Betta fish is one, if not the most sought after tank pets in different nations. Its bright colors, intricately shaped fins and interactive personality must have attracted aquatic life lovers of all ages. More than its interesting appearance there are must-know Betta fish facts that will surely fascinate and make a wannabe owner care for it properly.
As history accounts, the breed of this fish originated in Cambodia which was formerly known as Siam. The latter was coined with the fish’ present name – Siamese Fighting Fish. Famed today as Betta Fish or Betta Splendens, it has reached the tanks of many Eastern and Western households which find joy in keeping them as pets.
Bettas are highly recognizable in fish tanks. They seem to be gliding in water with the blue, red, purple and white radiance of their bodies. Unexpectedly, males own lengthier fins with more glowing tints. On the other hand, stripes can be found on the female’s body and fins when healthy. With proper Betta fish care, its length can reach two to three inches.
There are also amazing Betta fish facts that expose the behavior of this marine life. For one, males cannot be placed in one tank as they have the tendency to kill each other due to some territorial pursuits. Males and females alike can develop their own personalities. Some could be aggressive when being fed while some could be much tamed for you to pat. A few shows the characteristic of being teachable in performing simple skills in water like jumping rings.
Happy and healthy ones are very playful and swim with such grace. Slowness in movement and dullness in color are excellent indicators that there is something wrong with your fish. Knowing how to care for a Betta fish can spare you from losing these beauties that liven up your aquarium.
Generally, Betta fish tanks should include enough surface space. This provides your fish a perfect place to inhale air. They cannot breathe in the water so they stick out their heads from the water to breathe. Although they swim in water, they can drown in it.
It is also advisable to have a spacious tank which can hold five to ten gallons of water – the ideal home for single fish. Besides the fact that they love to swim around, males need ample amount of clean water for building bubble nests in preparation for the birth of his precious eggs. In one corners of the tank, you will see the male Betta gulping air and forming bubbles covered with his spit. This ensures that it won’t pop long enough for the coming of the eggs.
The average lifespan of these fish is two to three years. Surprisingly, surveyed Betta fish facts say that under excellent conditions they can live up to nine years. With excel-lent condition it means sufficient supply of clean water and opportunity to exercise on a daily basis. While those sold in pet shops have already lived half a year or so, with proper care they can still live longer.