Betta fish are one of the most popular freshwater pets thanks to their bright colors and bold personalities. They’re also beginner-friendly but only if you know how to care for them. In this guide, you’ll learn all the basics: how to set up a Betta tank, what to feed them, which plants and fish they like, and the different types of Bettas you can choose from. Whether you’re new to fishkeeping or already have a Betta, this is your one-stop guide to keeping them healthy and happy.
How to Care for a Betta Fish
Caring for a Betta fish goes beyond just putting them in a bowl. These fish need clean water, room to swim, and a warm, stable environment.
Basic Betta care checklist:
- A tank of at least 5 gallons
- A heater to maintain 76–82°F (24–28°C)
- A gentle filter
- Water conditioner (to remove chlorine)
- A varied diet (not just flakes)
- Daily observation and regular water changes
Bettas are interactive and can recognize their owner, so don’t be surprised if your fish swims up to greet you during feeding time.
Betta Fish Tank Setup: What They Really Need
A good tank setup helps your Betta feel safe and stay healthy. Despite common myths, Bettas should not be kept in tiny bowls. A properly set up tank reduces stress, improves behavior, and extends their lifespan.
- Minimum tank size: 5 gallons
- Ideal temperature: 78°F
- Lighting: Moderate; natural day-night cycle is ideal
- Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
- Decor: Live plants, caves, hiding spots, floating leaves
Explore creative Betta Fish Tank Ideas for setup inspiration.
Plants That Work Best in a Betta Tank
Bettas love swimming through soft, leafy plants. Live plants also help improve water quality by absorbing waste.
Best plants for Bettas:
- Anubias – Hardy, slow-growing, and safe
- Java Fern – Doesn’t need substrate, thrives in low light
- Amazon Frogbit – A floating plant Bettas rest under
- Marimo Moss Balls – Cute, easy, and help with water clarity
Live plants make a Betta tank feel more natural and reduce boredom.
See our full list of Plants for Your Betta Fish
Feeding Your Betta Fish
Feeding your Betta the right food helps boost their color, energy, and immune system. Many beginners make the mistake of overfeeding or using the wrong food.
Best Betta food options:
- Betta pellets (high protein, floating)
- Frozen foods (like bloodworms or brine shrimp)
- Occasional treats (daphnia, mosquito larvae)
Feed your Betta once or twice daily, only what they can eat in 2 minutes. Skip feeding one day a week to help digestion.
Who Can Live with a Betta?
While Bettas are known for being aggressive, they can share space with the right tank mates in a proper setup.
Good Betta tank mates:
- Nerite snails
- Corydoras catfish
- Ember or Neon tetras (in larger tanks)
- Kuhli loaches
Avoid any fish with long fins, bright colors, or aggressive behavior.
Read our full list of Betta Fish Tank Mates for safe combinations.
Water Parameters for a Healthy Betta
Maintaining stable water conditions is one of the most important parts of Betta care.
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
| Temperature | 76–82°F (24–28°C) |
| pH Level | 6.5 – 7.5 |
| Ammonia/Nitrite | 0 ppm |
| Nitrate | < 20 ppm |
Use a water test kit weekly. Always treat tap water with a dechlorinator before use. Perform partial water changes (25–30%) every week to keep things clean.
Understanding Betta Behavior
Bettas are intelligent and expressive fish. Knowing their behavior helps you notice stress, illness, or boredom early.
Normal behaviors:
- Flaring at reflections or during courtship
- Building bubble nests (males)
- Resting on leaves or decor
- “Begging” for food when they see you
Unusual behaviors to watch:
- Lethargy or hiding constantly
- Clamped fins
- Loss of appetite
- Darting or rubbing against objects
If you see these signs, check your water first. Most Betta problems start with poor water conditions.
Most Common Betta Fish Problems (And Fixes)
Here are a few issues beginner Betta keepers often run into:
Betta Not Eating
Possible causes: stress, cold water, poor diet, or illness.
Fix: Check water temp, offer a frozen treat, and monitor behavior.
Betta Laying at the Bottom
Could be rest, but also linked to ammonia spikes or swim bladder disorder.
Fix: Test water, change 25–50%, and feed less for a day or two.
Fin Rot
This bacterial infection causes shredded or blackened fins.
Fix: Clean tank, treat with aquarium salt or a mild antibiotic.
Types of Betta Fish (Tail Shapes, Colors & Personalities)
There are dozens of Betta types—each with its own fin shape and charm. Some are elegant, others bold or flashy. We’ve written separate care guides for the most popular ones.
👉 See the full Types of Betta Fish guide to compare them all.
Popular Betta Varieties with Care Links:
- Veil Tail Betta: Classic beauty with a flowing tail
- Plakat Betta: Short fins, more active
- Crown Tail Betta: Spiky fins and dramatic style
Each type has slightly different care needs, so choose the one that fits your tank and experience level.
Final Thoughts
Betta fish are more than just pretty pets. They’re smart, social, and fun to care for once you have the right setup. Start with a 5-gallon heated tank, add soft plants and clean water, feed a protein-rich diet, and watch your Betta thrive.
Explore our guides for deeper advice on tank mates, food, plants, and behavior. Your Betta will thank you with color, energy, and even bubble nests.
