Betta Fish

The betta, or Siamese fighting fish, comes in many colours and tail shapes, including halfmoon, plakat, crowntail and veiltail. Bettas are intelligent and full of character, and many learn to greet their owner at the glass. Males must be kept alone, because two males will fight. Females can sometimes live in groups in a large, planted tank, but that needs experience.

A betta is a tropical fish and needs warm water of about 25 to 28 °C. Even in the UAE, air conditioning can cool a tank too much, so use a small heater and a gentle filter in a tank of at least 20 litres with a lid, because bettas can jump. Avoid tiny cups and bowls. Feed small portions of betta pellets and frozen food, and change part of the water every week.

When you buy, choose a betta that swims well, has bright colour and whole fins, and shows no white spots or fuzzy patches. Selling bettas in the UAE? Post a free ad on AnimalMarket24 with photos and the tail type.