Origins and Classification
- Scientific Name: Betta splendens
- Family: Osphronemidae (Gouramis & Labyrinth Fish)
- Origin: Native to the shallow waters of Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam — rice paddies, ponds, and slow-moving streams.
- Popularity: One of the most iconic aquarium fish in the world, admired for its vibrant colors, flowing fins, and spirited personality.
🎨 Appearance
- Body Color: Males display intense colors like red, blue, turquoise, yellow, purple, black, and metallic hues — often changing slightly with mood or light.
- Distinctive Features:
- Long, flowing fins and tail (varieties include Veiltail, Halfmoon, Crowntail, Plakat, and Doubletail).
- Slender body with iridescent scales.
- When flaring, fins spread wide, showing stunning patterns and aggression displays.
- Size: 2.5–3 inches (6–8 cm) on average.
- Lifespan: 3–5 years with excellent water quality and proper diet.
🏡 Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: Minimum 5 gallons for a single male.
- Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (5–15 dGH)
- Habitat Setup:
- Gentle filter or sponge filter (bettas dislike strong currents).
- Heavily planted or decorated tank with caves or leaves for resting.
- Use floating plants to replicate natural cover.
- Always use a lid — males can jump.
