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How to Care for Your Betta Fish
Activ Web Design Leamington
There are some key aspects to keeping Betta Fish in good condition. Some of these are common to all tropical fish and some are specific to Betta’s. Looking after your tropical fish well will ensure a long and healthy lifespan.
The Betta fish tank needs to be kept at a fairly constant temperature (about 65-75 deg Fahrenheit). To maintain this temperature, the tank should be kept away from sources of cold and heat such as draughts from windows and external doors, direct sunlight and fires or radiators.
The first time you fill the tank with water it is best to use a water treatment chemical and leave it for at least two weeks for the natural bacteria to build up in the filter system before introducing any fish. Any fish tank equipment, ornaments or gravels need to be thoroughly washed a few times, to remove dirt etc., before placing them in the water.
As Betta Fish are air breathers they do not need an overly large surface area in the fish tank and can be housed in relatively small aquariums or even bowls. However, a nice large space for any fish is preferable to ensure a happy and healthy life.
Betta Splendens, or Siamese Fighting fish, as they are commonly known are aggressive, especially the males and they will fight to the death over territory, therefore another key point is to only keep one Betta in the fish tank or bowl. For the same reason, they are not compatible with many other breeds of fish either although can be kept alongside Pleco’s and other bottom dwellers. They will also be OK in a fairly large tank with most community fish such as tetras and guppies as long as these fish have places to hide away and plenty of space.
The tropical fish tank should be cleaned regularly and the water changed or at least partially changed on a weekly basis to ensure a healthy environment for your Siamese Fighting Fish.
Betta Fish feed on insects and larvae in the wild, taking them off the surface of the water. Therefore, live foods are best for ensuring a healthy diet although they will eat other tropical fish foods too.
Betta Splendens are known to jump out of fish tanks and bowls, therefore, you should ensure that either the top is covered or that the water level is sufficiently low enough below the rim of the tank (2-3 inches) so that they cannot jump out.
Betta fish live on average two to three years but may last longer if you look after them well.
Copyright2011
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Tropical Fish Tanks
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Article submitted Wednesday, September 14, 2011 & read 7 times.
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