Betta Fish Care Guide: Tank Size, Food, and Setup

Bettas are colorful, smart, and easy to love. They are also one of the most misunderstood fish. A betta does not belong in a tiny bowl or a vase. With the right setup, a betta can live 3 to 5 years and show a lot of personality. Here is how to do it right.

Betta Tank Size

• Best choice: 5 gallons or larger
• Absolute minimum: 2.5 gallons with a heater and gentle filter

Bigger tanks keep the water cleaner and the temperature steadier. Use a tight lid because bettas can jump.

Water Temperature and Heater

Bettas are tropical fish. Keep the water between 76 and 82°F. Room temperature is often too cold. A small adjustable heater is not optional for most homes.

Filter and Water Flow

Bettas have long fins and do not handle strong current. Use a sponge filter or a filter with an adjustable flow. If your betta is getting pushed around, turn the flow down.

Water Quality

• Ammonia and nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: under 20 ppm
• pH: 6.5 to 7.5

Cycle your tank before you add your betta. Read our guide on how to cycle a fish tank. Do a 20 to 30 percent water change each week. See our water change guide.

What to Feed a Betta

Bettas are carnivores. Feed a high-quality betta pellet as the main food. Add frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia a few times a week.

• Feed 2 to 4 small pellets once or twice a day.
• Remove any uneaten food after a few minutes.
• Skip one day of feeding per week to help digestion.

Decor and Plants

• Soft decor only. Rough plastic plants can tear fins. Use silk plants or live plants.
• Hiding spots. Caves and leaves help your betta feel safe.
• Floating plants. Bettas like to rest near the surface. See our guide to floating plants for fish tanks.

Can Bettas Live With Other Fish?

Male bettas should live alone or with very peaceful tank mates such as snails or shrimp in a larger tank. Never keep two males together. Female bettas can sometimes be kept in a group. Read our female betta sorority guide.

Common Betta Problems

• Fin rot: Ragged fins, usually from dirty water. Do water changes and test your water.
• Stress stripes or pale color: Often from cold water or a bad move. Check temperature.
• Not eating: Check water temperature first. Cold water slows appetite.
• White spots: See our ich guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do bettas live?

With good care, 3 to 5 years.

Do bettas need a heater?

Yes, in most homes. Cold water makes bettas sick and sleepy.

Can I keep a betta in a bowl?

We do not recommend it. A bowl has no heater or filter and the water turns bad fast.

How often should I feed my betta?

Once or twice a day, in very small amounts.

Shop Bettas at Garage Aquatics

Browse our betta fish. Every fish is photographed individually, and we ship from San Diego, CA. See how in our live fish shipping guide.