The betta is popular with aquarists starting out in the hobby — and many experienced aquarists dedicate themselves to keeping and breeding these extraordinary fish. If kept properly, bettas are adaptable and durable fish, highly recommended for the fishkeeper looking for something small and colorful.
However, there are some misconceptions among their keepers that make the lives of many bettas short and unpleasant. Not least of these is the idea that bettas can be maintained in unheated, unfiltered bowls. They can — but the betta eventually pays with its health and then its life, unless very specific conditions are in place. The “secret” to keeping bettas is to give them the same quality of care as any other tropical fish.
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