subject: Keeping fighting fish in vases [print this page] Author: Angie Rose Author: Angie Rose
In Thailand, where they originate, Betta Splendens (Siamese Fighting Fish) are often housed in small glass jars. In fact there is a tradition of giving such jars, complete with a solitary fighting fish, as gifts.
The argument for providing such little space for these fish lies in their original habitat. Wild Betta's often live in shallow pools or ditches and they breathe from the surface of the water. They are also often quite lazy fish who appear happy to languish in water without moving about that much (unless they see another fighter!).
In my experience whilst Betta's can survive in such conditions they certainly won't thrive in them. You could probably live for a long time in a single room, but would you be happy to?
If you must keep a Betta in a bowl, make sure you leave a two inch gap at the top and cover with muslin (assuming you have no lid) as Betta's can, and will, jump right out given the chance.
If you are not going to provide any filtration (which is not ideal) make sure you regularly change at least 30% of your Betta's water on a bi-wekly basis. You might also wish to treat your water with a preparation such as Ocean Nutrition Atisons Betta Spa, which has proved beneficial to fighting fish.
Remember also that Betta's thrive in temperatures of around 26 degrees centigrade, so supplementary heating is almost certainly a given in keeping these fiestey fish.
Feed your Betta sparingly twice a day a varied diet with occasional live food as a treat. Brine shrimp and frozen bloodworms along with proprietary Betta food makes a good choice. Remember, you Betta's stomach is about the size of his eye so little and often is the key.
Keeping fighting fish in a vase is generally not a good idea. Enjoy your fighting fish, but always remember the welfare of any pet is an important responsibility.About the Author:
I specialise in tropical fish husbandry and hold an OATA certificate in fish anatomy and health. I write about Betta fish husbandry at http://betterbettas.blogspot.com
