Betta (Siamese Fighting Fish)
Betta splendens
The iconic Siamese fighting fish: stunning colour, big personality and easy care in a heated nano tank.
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Min. Tank Size | 19 L |
| Temperature | 24.0–28.0 °C |
| pH Range | 6.0–7.5 |
| Max Size | 7.0 cm |
| Lifespan | 3-5 years |
| Diet | Carnivore |
| Temperament | Aggressive (males) |
Care Guide
Bettas are the most popular nano fish in Australia for good reason. A single male in a heated, filtered tank of at least 19 litres will thrive for years.
Keep the water warm (24-28C) with a gentle filter, as bettas dislike strong current. Feed a quality betta pellet with occasional frozen bloodworm or brine shrimp. Add live plants and a few caves for security.
Avoid keeping bettas in unheated bowls — stable warmth is essential to their immune system. Watch for clamped fins or white spots, which signal water quality problems.
Behaviour
Curious, interactive surface-breather that builds bubble nests and recognises its keeper.
Compatibility
Best kept alone or with peaceful tankmates such as corydoras, snails and rasboras. Never house two males together.
Breeding
Bubble-nest breeder. Condition the pair, introduce in a divided tank, and remove the female after spawning. The male tends the nest.
Disease Risks
Fin rot, ich, velvet and constipation from over-feeding. See our fish disease database for treatment.