How Long Do Betta Fish Live?
Normally betta fish live 2 – 4 years is the average lifespan of a domesticated Siamese fighting fish However, up to 6 years is very achievable and 10 has been done! You just need to make sure you can give your betta fish the best environment possible.
It’s this blog’s aim to make that 10-year achievement possible for you and your betta.
Secret Betta Tip: Bettas are often adults when sold at pet stores. Ask how old the fish is to ensure you have your fish for the longest time possible or even get a very young betta from a breeder instead.
Keeping Your Betta Fish Healthy and Happy
You will often see these colorful little fish in small containers at the pet store. They are sold this way because they can’t be kept together in one large betta tank as the males will fight each other. These small tanks are not suitable living spaces for betta fish; betta fish ideally need around 5 gallons of personal space in their tank. We have a page all about the best tanks for betta fish here.
If you decide to “save” one of these betta fish from their tiny prison, then you will need to buy your own betta fish tank, as well as betta fish food, betta fish plants and other accessories for your new pet. Check out the tools all betta fish owners need.
As mentioned before ideally your betta tank will be at least 5 gallons, 1.5 – 2 gallon tanks have done the job for many owners but we feel 5 is the magic minimum number for the happiest and healthiest betta.
Betta specific fish food is great as it has taken into account the natural diet of the fish and has been produced to match (or close enough) the fish’s natural requirements.
A few live aquarium plants can provide a great retreat for your bettas. It can also provide shade to help avoid algae growing so fast and can also help naturally filter out some impurities and nitrogen that will build up in the tank.
