How long do bettas live?
* Bettas typically live about 2-3 years, some as long as 5 years. Male bettas purchased from a pet store will be approximately 8-12 months of age. This is so that their fins have fully developed and they look most appealing to be purchased quickly. Female bettas may be younger when presented for purchase, as they do not have to develop for as long to determine their physical traits.

Can you put multiple bettas in the same tank?
* Consider bettas loner fish that should be kept by themselves. Male bettas should never be housed together. Male and female bettas should not be housed together unless you have done extensive research on breeding and intend to do so.

Do I need a filter in my betta’s tank? Do they breathe oxygen?
* The majority of betta owners successfully keep their fish in uncycled tanks with no filtration system and simply perform complete or partial water changes as needed. Bettas have a labyrinth organ which enables them to get oxygen from breathing surface air, so unlike typical aquarium fish they do not require a tank with a filter. In fact, many bettas do not like the current from filters and it can cause adverse health effects if the setting is too strong. Bettas’ long fins prevent them from having the ability to swim against a current, so this can be very stressful for them to attempt to do so on a regular basis. If you do choose to have a filtration system in your betta’s tank, make sure your betta is protected from getting himself or his fins stuck to the air intake within the tank. If this occurs, it will cause great stress to your fish, fin damage, and/or possible death.

Bettas are a cheap hobby and investment, right?
* Contrary to popular belief, having fish as pets isn’t always an inexpensive hobby and may end up costing more than expected. As you read through the information at Healthy Betta regarding housing, feeding needs, water conditioners and treatments, and other topics you will begin to get a feel for the real costs you should expect to incur when you bring a betta into your home. As with any pet, bettas can become ill and require medication - having different food choices on hand may add up quickly - weekly water changes may be time consuming, etc. Be sure to consider the time and effort involved in fish care before purchasing.