Caring for fighting fish

Betta fish, also called Siamese fighting fish are one of the most
popular types of fish found in homes across the world. Their
vibrant color and active lifestyle seems to draw in fish fanatics
as well as those who have never had fish before. Bettas are
relatively easy to care for and their low maintenance is
particularly appealing to people who would like to have fish but
dont have a lot of time to care for them.

Once you bring your Bettas home you should begin to familiarize
yourself with their movements and typical behavior patterns. When
you look at your fish after youve had them for awhile youll
know if something is wrong, if they are not feeling well, or if
the water in their bowl is not in the best condition simply by
being observant.

1. Make sure the jar or bowl that you keep your Betta in is big
enough so that he can swim around and not bump or tear his fins
or scales. Also be sure there is plenty of surface area so that
he can get enough oxygen.

2. Your Betta will thrive in the cleanest water that you can
provide for him. He does not require a filtration system, but you
should change out a third of his water every three days so it
stays fresh and clean and keeps your finned friend from getting
bacterial or fungal infections. Aged water (water that has set
out for twenty four hours) is what should be used to replace the
old water.

3. Do not put your Betta fish with other Bettas. They are called
Siamese fighting fish because they are, in fact, fighting fish.
They will tear at one another, often causing the death of at
least one fish before they stop. Bettas can be coupled with
algae eaters, guppies, or corydorus catfish safely.

4. Use a turkey baster to clean small particles of uneaten food
or debris from the bottom of the bowl or jar. Allowing this
debris to sit at the bottom of the jar will cause the water to
become cloudy, unsanitary, and to smell awful.

5. The PH of your tank should be at exactly 7.0. You can get a PH
testing kit at your pet store along with solutions to minimize or
increase the PH of your water.

6. When you clean the plants, rocks, or decorations in the bowl
you should never use soap on them. Its very hard to completely
rinse all soap from these items and the soap residue can harm or
even kill your Betta. Instead, use warm water and an abrasive
brush to clean his things.

. Keep your Betta tank, jar, or bowl covered! Your Beta will
jump and you dont want him to end up flopping on the tabletop!
Keeping the water level at least two inches from the top of the