You want your fish to be happy and healthy so they can live as long as possible. But as a kid, I didn’t know how to take care of mine for the first time, second, third or others, and I never had one live past about three months. Some aquarists said they kept a fighter for 6 years! Hi Cindy, if you have high pH tap water, I would recommend using spring water instead, although that may get expensive if you have that many tanks. They eat but one especially is sick. However, the fact is that they won’t thrive in those conditions. Your tasks for a betta with a long life starts before you even buy your fish. Usually, if nothing unforeseen happens, a Betta Fish will live about 2 … Getting a healthy betta from the start is a key factor in how long they will live. When I purchased my girls, the store only had 2 baby girls so I got them and put them in their 10 gal tank together and it’s been about 3 or 4 weeks and they are doing amazing together! Hi, Bryan, Make sure you know how to identify the sex of them, especially if one turns out to be a male so you can remove it. To do better? Several owners have even reported lifespans of 9 and 10 years, but that’s not realistic for every betta. The temperature remains at a steady 78 degrees. How long a Betta fish in captivity is influenced by a variety of factors, including tank size and water conditions, but also genetics, diet, and disease. Watch their life evolve from courtship, eggs, fry to adulthood in this glittering video. Tank? Alison has been interested in fish and aquariums for over five years. He is in a 2.5-gallon tank with a filter. The two most popular species of fish—bettas and goldfish—are at opposite ends of the spectrum. Which means they need visual stimulation daily… if their next bowl over beta male can share “display” time with one another great! I am confused about that. The oldest reported betta lived to be 10 years old, and that is what we all should strive for when we want to extend our betta’s lifespan. Factors that Shorten Betta Fish Lifespan: A Betta that is surviving is quite different from one that is thriving. Initially it was worse, and I fasted him 3 days and then fed him 1/4 pea. Steps. Healthy betta fish will have bright coloring (males), no scale or fin damage, and be active and feisty upon your presence. Is there a way to use an automatic Betta feeder where both fish can be fed daily? Is it alright for my male beta to lay down in the tank he came in because it is small environment. He is smart and funny AF!!! No probably because as long as it is not direct light she should be fine. These stores will sell male bettas when they are approximately one year old, and female bettas when they are roughly six months old. I have a square glass 2.7 gallon tank and I read here that I really should not attach the filter that came with this tank since it is smaller than 3 gallons, so I have not yet. 3. A fish that has grown up in subpar living conditions and isn’t healthy simply won’t live as long. Tank is clean and filtered, spring water only. I was going to use tap water with a conditioner but then I bought the heater (Bettatherm Mini Size Betta Bowl Heater) and it says use Only with Betta Water. Betta Fish Lifespan Betta Fish are among the freshwater fish you will find in most home aquarium tanks and they are a perfect choice for beginner aquarists. Lifespan of Siamese Fighting Fish. All betta personalities are different which complicates advice. Also, you will get general facts about Betta fish in captivity and the wild. The oldest recorded betta was 10 years old. Georgia (who was already bigger) has grown to about twice the size of Skye and I’m worried if I add another fish Skye may become a target. I’m a grandma! Keep your betta fish’s tank clean and consider using a filter to reduce ammonia, nitrites, and nitrites. This will also help them sleep, which impacts lifespan quite a bit. So much personality…I am quite smitten. Ive had a couple people joke that i run a betta retirement centre. Most people will have heard of Betta fish, they are infamous as one of the most aggressive tropical fish around. A betta retirement community hahaa that’s funny. The typical betta fish life span is 2 to 3 years. All comments are moderated before going live. I just love this website! He’s currently in what is technically a 3g bowl that fits a full 2.5 gallons of water, with the addition of his marbles and heater. You’ll notice that your betta is much more active and has a shinier color if his diet … That is only the general estimation, and it can vary widely. Being that they are picky eaters, finding the right food to make your betta happy can be difficult. Good care and a healthy diet can prolong the lifespan of your Betta. Fish in general don’t have a rather lengthy life expectancy and most species of fish don’t live long out in the wild either. You may also choose to feed your betta dried bloodworms or brine shrimp. We felt that this was an important thing to point out just to help manage expectations for any new owners. Smaller tanks will also require more frequent cleanings because of their size, it’s simple math! He is thinner and losing his color. Can I just change out to treated tap water or is there a process? In the wild, betta fish have abundant access to prey and are active carnivores (insectivores to be exact). Hi how can I keep the bottom of the tank clean from wasted food? A betta fish’s lifespan will almost always be significantly reduced if you house them in unfiltered and unheated bowls. If necessary, purchase a small (e.g. If my pH is high and nitrates but other tests good what do I do ? I learn something new all the time on my Bettas. It get enough natural light. If possible, purchase a betta from a local or online breeder like Aquabid instead of a pet or big box store. For example, there have been reports of betta fish living for more than five years. He’s still his sweet, happy and social self, but when I see him float onto his side, I get nervous. When other males come into a male Betta’s space, they will start fighting, which can decrease their lifespan … Anything else I can do? Buying a young betta is important if you want to have them throughout most or all of their life too. The recommended habitat size for a betta fish is 5 gallons, with a minimum recommended tank size of 2.5 gallons. Often times a new hobbyist doesn't know about the nitrogen cycle, water changes, proper tank setup and the foods they should be feeding them which causes disease issues and shortened lifespans. The Siamese fighting fish lifespan depends on several factors. The life expectancy of your male Betta fish will rapidly decrease if you keep it … How long a betta can live is mostly based on the tank conditions in which they are kept. It could be age, however, you should consider a leaf hammock or lowering the tank’s water to help him be able to get to the surface easier for air, and consider adding an air pump to oxygenate the water if you have one. When properly cared for betta fish have a lifespan of some 2-5 years in captivity. I would get at least two more baby bettas who are roughly the same size as GA and Skye in varying colors if possible and introduce them sooner rather than later. This will cause stress and potential injuries which all can shorten the average betta fish lifespan significantly. Beta get bored seeing the same guy next door… so rotate your beta if you have more then one… it’s something new, that will excite them, and get them to want to display once again… these fish enjoy displaying… the pet betas you see, would be so terribly board out of their minds with no one to display to, I think they would go insane to be honest… it’s basic observation people… don’t think that we are the only intelligent beings on this planet… some of the smallest beings can be just as intelligent… let your beta have any many exciting, new experiences… amusements, adventures(from the tank)… change their toys, change around the caves, and plants, and plastic caves, etc. In order to extend betta fish life, you need a happy and healthy betta. I don’t want him stressed all the time being territorial. For your primary question, it should only matter more in larger tanks where a heater might be in one area of the tank and not be able to adequately disperse to the rest of the tank. However, much of this reputation is likely based on improper care over the years. Everywhere I’ve read says to have a minimum of 3 females in a sorority tank. Due to their short lifespan, breeding starts within a … I thought when I bought them that they could be in a bowl but since then I’ve learned that they need more room and a heater. This is our 2nd beta. Bettas should do well for over 3 years. In such a small habitat, their life span is usually reduced. I have had him 2 years, got him out of a centerpiece from a wedding. In captivity the average betta fish lifespan is about 3 years of age, but it is not unusual for them to live up to 5 years. Generally they live 2-3 years but this is not carved in stone. I raised his water temp to 80 degrees, stopped feeding him fish pellets, now feeding him peas. I have over the last two years taken in 3 very old bettas. This means if your male betta lives for three years, you’ll probably have it for around two (males are sold later than females). While betta fish are often sold in small bowls or plastic containers, these are not the ideal conditions for a betta fish to thrive. You should take note though that the Betta fish you see being sold in fish stores are usually from breeders. I just got a beautiful male Betta for my toddlers to watch. But those are very exceptional instances. This was a very long question. Of course, one factor is how old your betta fish was when you bought it. Extended time in temperatures colder than recommended (less than 68 degrees) can hurt a betta’s natural immune system and lead to inactivity, refusal to eat, and susceptibility to diseases and death. Bryan is the founder of bettafish.org and has been keeping and caring for betta fish for 10 years. These stunningly gorgeous fish with flaring veil tails and bright colors are fun to watch for folks of all ages. According to the Quick Tips inset, at least… Betta fish are carnivores and need a varied diet rich in protein. I took the light away from my beta tank. The key to achieving the longest possible life for your Betta fish is to provide the most beneficial natural environment as possible. Many factors affect the lifespan of a betta fish. I use a spare turkey baster which makes it easy to suck up excess debris off the substrate. Haven’t had an algae problem since. Make sure your tank has a top on it too because betta fish are jumpers and often leap right out of a bowl leading to their death. He is very affectionate, and loves me right back. A cloudy fish tank is something that no aquarist wants to see. The lovely and experienced fish keepers at my LFS advised that any filter would be too strong for that amount of water, so just to make sure his water changes are good. I saw it in shops being sold in what look like Deerpark water bottles. With the right genetics, environment, and care from the onset of a betta’s life, they can live up to 6 or 7 years or more. Their aggression should not put you off though – they are a colorful species with plenty of personality to keep you captivated. I have two baby girl Betta fish in a 5 gal. Also, just because pet stores sell small tanks and bowls (e.g. The average lifespan of Betta fish, or betta splendens, is 2 to 4 years in captivity, for both males and females. There are different answers on this question about Betta Fish. But that is rare, and even if you do get such a fish, you would have to … The giant betta (Betta anabantoides) is a type of freshwater ray-finned fish in the Macropodusinae subfamily, part of the gourami family.It is native to southern Kalimantan, the Borneo region of Indonesia. Ammonia builds up as your betta excretes waste into the water and as uneaten food and live plants break down. This will affect how long you have them. A Betta Fish can survive up to 2 weeks without food. Yet given the predisposition of betta keepers for the epic fail it might be good to at least cover the 17 top ways to kill your betta fish… I recently bought a 5.5-gallon tank for my betta male, has two caves to hide in and has plenty of plants. You would be blown away if you knew how many times we get asked: “how long do betta fish live?”. Use a Filter and a Heater. One thing I was wanting to ask is? I have two Bettas and a divided 2.5 gallon tank. Often times a new hobbyist doesn't know about the nitrogen cycle, water changes, proper tank setup and the foods they should be feeding them which causes disease issues and shortened lifespans. The ones you […] The lifespan of a Betta fish relies on a proper diet. I am an intermediately experienced betta owner, however, this is my first try with a sorority tank. How to Breed Betta Fish. Are you in agreeance? Bettas tend to be a first-time fish keepers choice (or gift) because of their resilience and beauty. Lifespan of Crowntail Betta. He has always preferred to spend most of his time at the top, but he doesn’t appear to have much of a choice these days. Yes, in most cases bettas do live longer in captivity. The bloodworms could have initially caused the issue and maybe some level of swim bladder disorder which on occasion may never fully heal. This means they may have been subjected to cramped environments, diseases, and parasites which can shorten their lifespan. Betta fish who are fed a good diet will appear to be healthier in terms of their growth rate, coloration, swimming patterns and behavior, and, of course, overall lifespan. How long a betta can live is mostly based on the tank conditions in which they are kept. I should note also, that Ruby was in with another fish when I first got her and she kept her distance, but he kept chasing her and nipped a fin so I removed her immediately. Ruby and GA are veiltails, and I think Skye may be crowntail, but she’s still pretty small. This makes tap water safe for your fighting fish. Is there anything I can do to help them that doesn’t cost a lot? Do right by them, and they’ll be around for you to enjoy for quite a while! If you want the nitty-gritty you can read our betta fish care guide. They are just like other intelligent animals, with displaying as one of their hardwired behaviors… hey he displays to show off to the guys, and to attract a female!! Make the right choice from the start. You now know the answer to the question “how long do betta fish live” along with the various factors that can impact their lifespan. I should note he’s a doubletail, and I’ve read they are prone to such issues. Don't fret if your betta is changing colors. So, he will find this interesting, and allow him to feel like he’s exploring some place new… it’s simply just think about what you would consider interesting, and exciting if you were a beta fish!!! A full, healthy life is only possible in a cycled and heated tank. The average lifespan of a Crowntail Betta is 2-3 years. Most pet stores supply 1 … The care you’ve outlined here sounds pretty spot-on and you’re doing everything you should be. The betta fish lifespan is between 2-5 years. How Long Do Betta Fish Live? We’re heard from new aquarists who have thought their betta died young when in reality it had an average lifespan. Like any animal, the lifespan of a betta fish can be drastically impacted by the quality of its living conditions. Good care and a healthy diet can prolong the lifespan of your Betta. Getting back to the most important elements in a betta’s life expectancy, there are certain things you can do to help your betta fish live longer. This is known as marbling and happens in most betta splendens. Hello! Sorry to hear that your betta isn’t doing too well. In their natural habitat, Crowntail Betta usually feeds on insects and larvae. When properly cared for betta fish have a lifespan of some 2-5 years in captivity. A betta fish is going to live a lot longer in a larger tank due to the fact that it will have less anxiety from switching waters on a weekly basis. A healthy diet can also improve the color of this fish. That’s amazing and definitely some of the oldest bettas I’ve heard of others caring for. Any advice? So, how long do betta fish live really? If you want to see them click this link to be taken to that section in our other guide. Betta Fish: Care Guide, Lifespan, Facts And Compatibility. Provide rich and abundant food that’s high in protein and fiber. Would you clarify if I have a heater, then I must have a filter or no? In their current conditions they are all fairly docile. While betta pellets are a great start, you should also be incorporating freeze-dried, frozen, or live bloodworms and brine shrimp to really get all of the nutrients they need. If you already knew the information above, then good for you! In order to extend betta fish life, you need a happy and healthy betta. That’s awesome Barbara, aren’t betta fish the best? I have my betta in distilled water. How long a betta fish will live depends on a variety of factors though. Article by Aquariadise. Even so, its rare for a Betta to live more than five years. Also, there’s a good chance that males will injure each other due to their aggressive territorial nature. Here’s a video showing a quick recap on the betta fish lifespan. Today, he had thawed frozen daphnia instead. I think the real question here is: should a Betta fish live in a jar? If you're wondering how long you can expect your beloved Betta to be with you and what affects Betta fish lifespan, this article will help. His goal is to create a fun, educational, and inspiring community for other betta moms and dads. !… get it? Keep Males Separate. When a lot of people research how long betta fish live they’re under the assumption that they’ll have their fish for their entire life. How Long Do Betta Fish Live: Wild vs Captivity Betta fish live in the wild, on average, 2 years Betta fish live in captivity, on average, 3 years Has he calmed down around it yet? I thought though that in order for you to have a heater in the water, you need a filter so the temperature is mixed and one part of the tank doesn’t get too warm? Took some time. I have 6 Bettas 5 gallon tanks. Being that they are picky eaters, finding the right food to make your betta happy can be difficult. and any recommendations to what I should do? In captivity, you need to replicate their environment as much as possible, and that means nutrition too. I am feeding him 2 tiny pellets twice a day, morning and night. I have a small algae eater called an otto sucker catfish. You should take note though that the Betta fish you see being sold in fish stores are usually from breeders. While this is the average number, you can sometimes extend this by a year or two if you give them the best possible care. First, try using Nutrafin Betta Plus Tap Water Conditioner for Bettas. Dealing with Velvet Shine a flashlight on your fish. However, we highly encourage you to take a second to learn about the factors that can influence how long they live. They don’t ask for much from us really… they do recognize you, and they do recognize what you say, or, show them… like the bottle of food pellets they see every day… they know it’s breakfast, or, dinner when they see the bottle… I taught my beta to come to me on command for their meals when I tap my finger on the rim of their bowl… don’t mind the bowl reference they move from their “condos”, to the mansion next month… I have the list of everything I need to buy for the big move, and am just as excited as my fish will be, once they get to move in!… : ), I make sure to rotate the five of them, so, each one gets a few days to spend playing with mommy… meaning their bowl is nearest to me, and I play hide and seek with them… or, pretend to scratch their tummies… I hold out the palm of my hand for them to pretend to sit on… as it’s as close as they will get to do this…. Maybe 5 years in really good living conditions with the best fish care possible. — repleat with MY blood, lol.) The biggest dietary risk to bettas is overfeeding. Wild betta live, on average, two years. It should come as no surprise that purchasing a healthy fish from a reputable supplier will make a huge impact on the lifespan of your betta fish. So before getting to know how to expand your fish’s lifespan, let’s take a quick look at the characteristics of betta. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. We had him for around a year, and he gradually went from darker blue hues to a pure black. Diseases from this can harm your betta and often lead to death from poor water quality. Generally, the life expectancy of your domesticated betta fish is going to be around 3 years. Take this seriously and do what it takes to give them the space they need. Many betta diets are very high in fat, which lazy betta fish just do not need. Can a Betta fish live in a jar? If you love your pet Betta fish and want to increase its lifespan then look at the nutritional need of your little buddy. The Betta fish in the wild has an average lifespan of 2 years. There are a number of reasons for this but they all have to do with the additional stressors and difficulties that they will face. They are extremely hardy fish and will survive conditions that would kill other specie. Pet stores display betta fish in plastic cups because of their aggression and territorial nature. Avoid overfeeding them, because it can lead to complications too. Fishkeepers should maintain a high level of care, as this will ensure the longest and happiest life for the fish. (The adults LOVE the mosquitos that I catch for them! However, it is not uncommon for well cared for bettas in an aquarium to live to 5+ years with scatter reports of them living to nearly 10 years. You may also choose to feed your betta dried bloodworms or brine shrimp. Betta fish live between 3-5 years in captivity. The … In addition, it also helps your rumble fish heal from any scrapes or other exterior damages and thus increasing your betta fish lifespan. And a smaller tank you have to change the water more frequently and when that happens the fish gets very stressed out and gets anxiety and that deals with its … This is the second most important piece of the puzzle if you want to maximize the lifespan of a betta fish. The other one is limited also but not quite as bad. You are correct, all you need is tap water with a conditioner (as long as your tap water is okay). It also enhances the growth rate of Betta fish. Happy and Healthy Bettas for Extending Your Betta’s Lifespan. Do Betta Fish live longer in captivity or in the wild? Look for any concerning signs before you buy your fish. If you are going to keep them healthy in the meantime, you should at the minimum do daily 10-20% water changes in the bowls. This type of fish is a carnivore. The typical betta fish life span is 2 to 3 years. With the right knowledge and passion, you can certainly expect your betta fish to live for 2-3 years. Betta life span can range from approximately 2-5 years in captivity. Factors Affecting Betta Fish Lifespan: 1. As such, the exact lifespan of your Betta will depend on the particular fish you have. However, that does not mean that you will have your fish for three years after buying them today. Make sure you are feeding an appropriate betta diet around 35% protein. The most significant factor in the life span of the betta fish is the general care and the conditions that you provide it with. You can find individuals for roughly $5, but this price will double depending on the store and type of Betta fish. Most betta fish won’t even touch regular tropical fish flakes because this food is inadequate to their needs. How to Ensure your Betta Fish Lives as Long as Possible Buying your Fish. Further, if anything unclear, FAQs will clear your doubts at the end of this article. Do Betta Fish live longer in captivity or in the wild? Moreover, you are provided with the best tips for enhancing the lifespan of this vivacious fish. In the wild, the average betta fish lifespan won’t be quite as long as in an aquarium. You could use the filter if you can slow the water coming into the tank enough, or you can use a sponge-filter setup as well which produces almost no current. Make Sure You Buy a Healthy Betta. Your tasks for a betta with a long life starts before you even buy your fish. To maximize the lifespan of your betta fish, it is imperative that you provide adequate space in the tank and maintain high water quality. He’s in a 5 gallon Fluval Chi with lots of rocks, sand, a cave, and anya for hiding. If you want them to live as long as possible, make sure you give them the best possible environment and habitat that allows them to thrive. When I changed his tank yesterday, he was entire black, and for the last few days he had hidden in his tank house. Most importantly, in terms of both a betta’s lifespan and its general health, is the … 35. Lifespan In the wild. Very informative thank you. Aquarium Source is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. or is that normal betta fish behavior? I have had Bettas in the past, but this one seems obsessed with a seashell (properly cleaned and aquarium safe) – he displays in front of it and puffs up. For any fish, poor water quality equals poor health. However, on average they’re going to live for about 3 years. Hi Shannon, yes there truly is which is why I try my best to continue educating and responding to questions like yours. On average, they can live around 3 years. www.piscespros.com - Ever wonder why most pet betta fish only live for 1 year or less when their natural lifespan is 2-3 years? This one is cupcake 2. This is the second most important piece of the puzzle if you want to maximize the lifespan... … On the other hand, as much as 6 years can be quite possible. Learn more. Love your website . Can you advise me on water changes and feeding? 15 years has actually been achieved! There are instances of a betta surviving for 9 years. I just want to say I cannot believe I have had my Betta named Red Bull for 9 years I repeat 9 years!! This may seem shorter than that of Bettas in captivity because the competition in the wild makes things less certain for Betta fish. Avoid abrupt temperature changes and avoid colder temperatures at all costs. Why You Have A Cloudy Fish Tank (And How To Fix It), Why Your Betta Fish Is Laying At The Bottom Of The Tank, Indian Almond Leaves: Benefits For Your Aquarium, The 35 Best Low Light Aquarium Plants (Must-See), 35 Peaceful Community Fish For Your Tank (Updated List), Malaysian Trumpet Snail 101: Detailed Info & Care Tips. So if your fish only lives a year or two after you purchase it, dont assume youve been a bad owner. Although it is claimed that with proper care, they may live even further, chances of seeing a Betta fish older than four years of age is extremely rare. This often leads to betta keeping before doing the proper research on how to care for them. When you speak or tap the tank come up to say hello. You want your fish to be around as long as possible, and knowing this will help you make that happen. To keep a fish tank running for a decade or longer, you’ll have to keep replacing fish that die out naturally. Because there are so many myths about the proper care for this species in captivity, their life spans are drastically reduced and almost always cut in half. In the wild, native to areas like Cambodia and Thailand, the betta inhabits rice paddies and still watered canals. Yay, I’m doing it right! Betta fish love is uniquely beautiful. The Betta fish, Siamese fighting fish, or betta as it’s known by its genus, is an elegant tropical freshwater fish that is popular as a pet and often housed in eclectic home aquariums. I’m not sure how you would use only one as distribution would probably be inconsistent at the middle of the divider – falling on each side.