Betta fish is suitable as pet fish because it has bright colors, such as blue, orange, red, green, yellow or turquoise. It is sometimes called Siamese fighting fish, and it was originally found in fresh waters, such as rice paddies, in Thailand and Cambodia. Aside from its bright colors, the betta fish has beautiful fan-like fins and tails.
Even if you find betta fish being shown in beautiful vases at pet shops, this is not the best arrangement for this tropical fish. This kind of fish is known to be able to survive in tight places such as in rice paddies, but this does not mean that this is the best way to care of it.
You will actually need a fish tank that has about two gallons of water to offer enough space for swimming. It has been observed that the betta fish loves to swim but if the space is limited, it can easily bump into something that may cause injury to its body such as its fan-like fins and tails. It must also be provided with access to the surface of the water because it has to breathe atmospheric air from time to time.
Some experts claim that there is no need for filtration and aeration systems for the betta fish aquarium because this type of tropical fish does not really need as much dissolved oxygen in the water as the other kinds. However, for better health, it is advisable to put in some kind of filtration system to prevent the accumulation of toxins that can come from decaying plants, bacteria, and other harmful chemicals like ammonia.
You need not purchase an aeration system because the filtration system can produce bubbles on the surface of the water. This would be sufficient for the needs of the betta fish for oxygen in the water.
Gravel is really not necessary, though you can add some gravel but not too much. Make sure to buy those that have not been treated with chemicals. Wash the gravel first before putting them inside the tank to get rid of any contaminants including dust.
When considering what betta fish supplies to purchase, you will have to ask someone who is knowledgeable in taking care of them. If you notice that the fish is acting strangely, such as when it does not eat or it keeps hiding, it may have a health problem. But, do not just purchase any kind of medication. Ask an expert first for the kind of medicine that your pet really needs.
With regards to ornaments, you can really have some fun with this because the betta fish is colorful and you can play with various combinations of decorations that are also colorful. While gravel is not really needed, you can add an inch-thick layer of gravel to provide some interesting contours. Just remember to avoid putting in those that have sharp edges because these can injure your betta fish.
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