Male Crowntail Betta | Betta splendens
Choose the aquarium for the adult animal and its companions. A mature filter and stable, species-appropriate water conditions are essential.
At a Glance
| Origin & natural habitat |
Brazil, Colombia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore; freshwater habitats. |
| Adult size |
Around 6–7 cm including fins, depending on variety. |
| Lifespan |
Around 3–5 years. |
| Temperament |
Territorial male; do not house with another male betta |
| Activity |
Use a consistent light/dark cycle with sheltered resting places. |
| Social needs |
One male per aquarium. Female groups are not a simple beginner setup. |
Housing & Setup
Enclosure dimensions are length × depth × height unless stated otherwise. Plan for the adult animal; larger, suitably furnished housing is encouraged.
| Adult housing |
At least 40 litres with a floor around 45 × 30 cm for one adult; larger is encouraged. |
| Enclosure type |
Heated, filtered freshwater aquarium; bowls and unheated jars are unsuitable. |
| Temperature |
24–28°C; use a reliable aquarium heater. |
| Water chemistry |
pH around 6.0–7.5; avoid sudden changes in hardness or pH. |
| Substrate |
Species-appropriate sand or smooth gravel; avoid sharp material around bottom-dwelling fish. |
| Furnishings & filtration |
Gentle filtration, plants, surface resting places and a secure lid with breathing space above the water. |
Behaviour & Compatibility
Never keep male bettas together. Avoid fin-nippers or fish with conspicuous flowing fins; a planted individual aquarium is often the safest choice.
Feeding & Nutrition
Feed a quality betta food in small measured meals, supplemented with suitable frozen or live invertebrates. Avoid oversized portions, and remove leftovers. Confirm the current feeding schedule at collection.
Routine Care
Check appetite, breathing, equipment and water temperature daily. Test water regularly; ammonia and nitrite must remain at zero. Make regular partial water changes using conditioned, temperature-matched water. Rinse biological filter media in removed tank water, preserving the filter bacteria.
Important Before Buying
Cycle the aquarium before collection. Confirm the current food and water conditions with our aquatic team and acclimatise gradually. Sale size is not adult size; stocking and filtration must account for the full-grown animal.
Photograph: Nippyfish, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0.
Live Animals Are Click & Collect Only
We do not ship live animals. Order online and wait for confirmation that your animal is ready before collecting from Newlands Home and Garden Centre, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. Have the enclosure prepared and its conditions checked before collection.
