Betta Fish are one of the most popular fish available in North America. People who are new to the world of tropical fish are frequently attracted to bettas because they do not involve a lot of care. They are often displayed, in stores in extremely small containers. Bettas can live in these conditions, but if you want your fish to be happy and to live a long life there are a number of things that you need to know.

Betta fish are commonly referred to as Siamese Fighting fish. These beautiful fish have been bred in Asia for hundreds of years. They were bred for both their color and for their fighting ability. Wild betta fights will normally end when one of the fish backs away. These matches usually last only a couple of minutes before one of the males acknowledges the other’s superiority. In captivity these bouts will go on for much longer. This fighting became a popular pastime where spectators could wager on the outcome of the match. It was this activity that inspired people in Asia to develop detailed breeding programs.

There are several breeds of bettas that you can obtain at most pet stores. There are Halfmoons, Veils, Comb and Crowns and about ten other breeds. The color and breed will affect the price of the fish. Bettas that are sold in pet stores usually sell for between 2 and 10 dollars. The more exotic and rare breeds will fetch hundreds of dollars.

The average betta fish life span in captivity is two to three years. Although, this is the general rule, some fish have been known to live over seven years. When you buy a betta chances are that he is at least six months old if not older. Another betta fish facts is that bettas do not require a heater in the tank. They are happy to live in water that is between 75 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit.  This temperature can be maintained in normal household conditions. However, be certain that the fish’s home is not close to either a window or an outside door. Either one of these elements can cause changes in the water temperature.

You can easily tell a male betta from a female. Males have longer tales and fins. Some people claim that the female colors are much more muted than males. This is not true. You can get females which have very dark and vibrant colors.

You should not keep male bettas in the same tank. Another Betta Fish Facts;Bettas can and do fight. Males living in the same tank will almost certainly have a dispute over territory. This fighting will lead to one of the fish being either hurt or killed. It is possible to keep males and females in the same tank. If you plan on doing this it is recommended that you have at least two females. A single female in a tank with a male may be subjected to constant harassment from the male. This constant stress may have a serious affect on the female. Males will nip and bite the female in an effort to attract her. This aggressive behavior can cause serious damage to the female’s fins. This situation may lead to the death of the female.

Bettas are quite happy to live on their own. However, you can keep a betta in a community tank. If you plan on doing this you must be careful. Bettas can be aggressive. They can also be the target of other fish living in the community. Many species of tropical fish will attack bettas and damage their long fins.

You have to make certain that you keep the water clean. Regular water maintenance is essential. You should change at least one third of the water every week. If you live in the city you should not add water directly from the tap. City water frequently contains a number of different chemicals that can cause harm to the fish. You should treat any water that you intend to introduce into the tank.

One of the things that every fish owner should have is a water testing kit. These kits are very similar to the ones that are used in pools and hot tubs.  You want to be able to test for pH levels and water hardness. You can get more elaborate kits that will check the water for various other conditions and elements in the water.

Bettas are truly beautiful fish.  If you do plan to buy one of these fish you should, as a responsible pet owner do more than just give your betta a place to live. Its a Betta Fish facts, that you should provide him an environment, where he can thrive as it will extend the life span.