Where should I buy my betta?

Can you touch your Betta?

Betta fish should rarely, if ever, be petted. It’s not good to pet them, as it may remove their natural slime coating, making them prone to certain diseases. Also, never touch them with dirty hands, as bacteria can easily be transmitted through direct contact.

How long can a betta fish live?

Why do pet stores sell bettas in cups?

Because they can and they must separate males. The bettas seen on display are males that fight and mutilate one another if kept together.

How old are betta fish usually when you buy them?

Because a Betta purchased at a pet shop is often one year old already. Males, in particular, are allowed to fully mature, so their fins and colors are well developed. Females may be sold at a bit younger age, but they will generally be at least six months old when offered for sale.

What should I look for when buying a betta fish?

Look for a fish with smooth, bright scales and no visible lumps or abrasions. Eyes should look clear and bright and when you gently place a finger near the fish, it should react. Plus, learn about all the different types of Bettas you may find at the store here to find your best fit!

What happens to betta fish in pet stores?

Betta fish are often starved for days during transport and confined individually to tiny bags stuffed into boxes. According to Petco employees, the transport process is so strenuous that many fish die after arriving at the store.

How long do bettas live in pet stores?

But, many people don’t realize the commitment they’re making when choosing betta fish as a pet. Betta fish lifespan. Betta fish on average live to be 2-4 years old. The length of your betta fish’s life is directly related to the environment you keep them in.

How long do Petsmart bettas live?

Betta fish can live up to 3 years old. They can grow up to 3 inches long. A single male betta fish can sometimes be kept in a large community aquarium without any other bettas, but they should be monitored closely.

How often should bettas be fed?

It is recommended to feed your betta fish two to four pellets, once or twice per day. Pellets expand when placed in water and are very filling for your betta fish. Freeze-dried or fresh food can be substituted for their pellet feeding 1 to 2 days per week.

How often do you change betta fish water?

But the short version is that small water changes of 10-20% once every 7-10 days are best for your betta’s health. This is also assuming you are running a filter. You can also do water changes of 20-30% once every 2-3 weeks, but smaller water changes are better for stable water conditions!

Do bettas like light?

Bettas like light so that they know when to wake up and prefer a darker environment to sleep in. You may have an aquarium light on your tank and if so, it is probably best for you to turn this on when you wake up in the morning and turn it off just before bedtime.

How often do you clean a betta fish tank?

You need to clean a 5-gallon tank weekly, while a larger 15- or 20-gallon tank only needs cleaning once or twice a month.

What should you not put in a betta fish tank?

‍Do not put any decor in your aquarium that contains or is made of metal. This will rust and seriously affect the water in your aquarium. ‍Do not use decorations or ornaments that are sharp. Some decorations can have sharp edges or protruding features that a betta could easily tear its fins or snag itself on.

Can I leave my betta fish for a day?

All bettas are different from their age, health, metabolisms, and environments so not all fish can fare as well left unattended. The maximum amount of time away without feeding should be 4-7 days.

Can betta fish live without filter?

So, betta fish can live without a filter, but having using a filter for your betta, like a sponge filter, will help maintain healthier water conditions and disaster. The most ideal environment for a betta fish in captivity is a planted tank of 3+ gallons with a filter and heater.