Fighting fish (betta)

Question

I want to get a fighting fish and im wondering how much room one fish would need to be happy. Thanks

Answer 1

From experience, I find that my bettas do the best in a 6 to 12 gallon tank that is heated and filtered. Don't even consider a bowl or anything else than 5 gallons, which is completely inhumane. Sure, a betta will survive in a small tank or bowl for a while, but it won't thrive. Watch a betta in a tiny bowl and then watch one in a roomy tank and you will see the obvious difference. Bettas with space are much more active and "alive". Make sure there is a lot of cover -- a mix of silk plants and several live plants like java ferns and marimo moss bills is great. Also make sure there are plenty of hiding places. My bettas absolutely love swimming through their little plastic bridge decorations. Consider getting a 12 gallon tank and dividing it in two with a fish tank divider. Get a betta for each side. They seem to enjoy the company.