Minimum Tank Size

A minimum of 5 gallons per betta is required for long-term health.
10+ gallons is strongly recommended for optimal comfort and stability.

Bettas are intelligent, active fish — they thrive in stable environments, not small containers.

Temperature

Keep water between 78–82°F at all times. Use a reliable heater and thermometer. Cold water weakens immune systems and causes lethargy.

Filtration

Use a gentle filtration system such as:

• Sponge filter (ideal)
• Low-flow hang-on-back (HOB) filter

Avoid strong currents. Bettas have long fins and are not strong swimmers in high flow.

Water Parameters

Keep water conditions stable:

• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Ammonia: 0 ppm
• Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: under 20 ppm

Always cycle your aquarium before introducing any fish.

Diet

Feed once or twice daily using high-quality food:

• Betta pellets (high protein)
• Frozen bloodworms
• Brine shrimp
• Daphnia

Fasting Day

Fasting your betta 1 day per week is recommended.

This helps prevent:

• bloating
• digestive issues
• constipation (very common in bettas)

Overfeeding

Overfeeding is the #1 cause of illness in bettas.

Uneaten food breaks down quickly and causes ammonia spikes.
When in doubt — feed less, not more.

When Your Fish Arrives

Follow this process carefully:

1. Float the sealed bag in your tank for 15–20 minutes
2. Gradually add small amounts of tank water into the bag every 5 minutes
3. After 30–45 minutes total, gently release the fish into the tank

Do not rush this process — it reduces stress and improves survival rate.

Color After Shipping

It is completely normal for bettas to appear:

• pale
• lethargic
• inactive

This is temporary shipping stress. Most fish regain full color within 30–60 minutes after acclimation.

Do Not

• Do NOT pour bag water into your tank
• Do NOT feed for the first 24 hours
• Do NOT place the tank near loud noise or heavy vibrations.

Bowls and Vases

Bowls, vases, and unfiltered setups are not suitable long-term environments.

A betta in a small container is surviving — not thriving.

Tap Water

Always treat tap water with a dechlorinator before use.

Chlorine and chloramines are toxic even in small amounts.

Two Males Together

Never house male bettas together.

They are highly territorial and will fight. Each male requires its own tank.