What is the Best Tank Size Needed for 1 Male Siamese Fighting Fish (betta Splendens)?

There has always been some controversy as to what size fish tank is suitable for a Siamese fighting fish - also known as the Betta Splendens or Betta fish. In this article, we have some helpful information that will help you to create a suitable tank environment for housing a fighter fish.

How big should the tank be?

The bigger the tank is – the better for the welfare of the fish. In the wild Siamese fighter fish live in the Mekong basin in South East Asia, they reside in standing water of canals, rice paddies and flood plains. When these areas dry out they can become very shallow and the fish can be left in very small puddles of water – this is where the idea of them not needing much water and space originates. They are well adapted to survive in these small bodies of water during drought periods but this is not their habitat all year around. We would recommend the fish have enough space to happily move around, so around 5 litres are needed as a minimum - as recommended by the Anabantoid Association of Great Britain. Bear in mind that some Giant Betta fish variations will need much larger space at around 20+ litres, and they can never have too much space. 

What kind of environment does my betta fish need?

The bettas natural environment is tropical, so you will need a heater for your tank so the temperature sits at between 24-27 degrees, you will also need a lighting system on your tank. The water PH should be neutral at 7.0. They will also need a suitable filtration system to keep the water aerated and build up healthy bacteria to keep harmful ammonia and nitrite levels down. They do best in a planted aquarium, they often like to rest on plant leaves or on the bottom of the tank. Things like tannin leaves can also be added to a betta tank as these can be beneficial to your Bettas health.

Tank mates

Male fighter fish cannot be kept with any other males in the same tank, as their name suggests they will fight which will often end in death. They should only be kept with females if the tank is very large, with enough room and hiding space for the females. They cannot be kept with any fish that have similar long finnage as they can mistake these for other males and potentially fight and nip. Species that are known to nip fins should also be avoided. General community fish such as Tetra and Corys will make good tank mates for your betta fish.