Facts About Betta Fighting Fish

The female of the species is a dull-colored fish who is there to make eggs, and is docile. The aggressiveness of the male Betta makes up for the female’s docility, though. Betta males are known for their aggressive behavior, and their willingness to fight each other at the drop of a hat.

However, Betta owner’s have different opinions. Some Betta males are docile; others are only aggressive against smaller and slower fish. Bettas bred for beauty instead of fighting have long flowing fins, and should not be used in this manner. Betta fish males are also in charge of making bubble nests and defending his brood; after breeding, the male drives off the female to protect the eggs so they will have time to hatch.

Betta fish websites advertise the best fighting fish, the best fighters, and the best fighting techniques and food, but the casual Betta fish owner just wants a beautiful fish. There is a market and a place for fighting fish, of course. But with the selective breeding that is done now for aesthetic purposes, the market for actual Siamese fighting fish is smaller than the market for strikingly beautiful freshwater specimens.

Betta fish function better in larger aquariums, provided that unrelated males are not placed in a tank with one another. If this occurs, it causes the stress level in the tank to increase. Also, avoid putting mirrors in a Betta tank, as this will cause the Betta to feel threatened. Simple tank separators work fine for keeping male Bettas separate, or you can just limit one male per tank and maybe a few female Bettas for company.

Bettas are bred for both their fighting skills and beauty, but the two types rarely make a good combination. For the average hobbyist, it is probably better to stick with the beauty instead of trying to make an aggressive fish that can clear out your aquarium of other fish.