Things to Pay Attention to in Betta Fish Cultivation
The first thing that must be considered in maintaining betta fish is the environment, prepare a large space. Because as we know there are many betta fish that are just placed in small containers.
| Things to Pay Attention to in Betta Fish Cultivation |
Though Ideally, they should be in a container of at least a 19L equivalent sized tank. This allows them to exhibit normal activity and have less build-up of toxins in the environment. Here are some other steps that need to be considered in the maintenance of betta fish:
1. Aquarium Decoration
Do not just place it in an aquarium with decorations that are too crowded, especially with sharp edges because it can damage the fins. In keeping betta fish, you don't need too many designs in the aquarium, instead make simple aquarium decorations, so that fish are happy to go to the outskirts or hidden places.
2. Pay attention to the temperature and water quality
Water quality is very important for fish health. urine, feces, and the breakdown of inedible food can cause toxins in the water. Because most people do not realize betta is a tropical fish. Therefore if you are in a cold area, the water temperature should be kept in the range of 76-81 degrees Fahrenheit (24-27 degrees Celsius).
A thermometer is important in this case to monitor the temperature of the water. Water quality also needs to be considered. It should be noted that PAM water is better to use than well water in maintaining these fish. However, tap water generally contains chlorine which is dangerous. Therefore, the use of packaged water can be an option.
3. Stool Filter
Betta fish's natural habitat is rivers or swamps and is considered strong enough to survive even without an aerator, many people, especially beginners, ignore the water filter system. Though the filtration system or water filter is very important to get rid of toxins in the aquarium. Also use a filter with a low suction so as not to damage the fins or tail.
4. The assumption of eating plant roots
The assumption that Betta fish can survive only on plants as a food source is not true. Plants can provide a place for them to play and hide even though they are not used as a food source like fish in general. Betta fish are insectivorous carnivores and their larvae should therefore be fed a balanced diet of pellets or flakes daily.
5. Supplementary Nutrients
Just like other pets, betta fish also develop obesity or other health problems if they are overfed. Give food that can be consumed in 3 to 5 minutes, with no leftovers.
Because the remaining food will make the water quality worse. In addition, betta fish can also be treated to high protein foods such as blood worms or brine shrimp that are fed alive or frozen to dry.
6. Bettas naturally live territorially
Bettas naturally live territorially and should not be placed with other betta fish in the same container because it will cause them to fight and injure each other which often leads to death.
However, there are several species that can be added to a betta aquarium, such as snails, ghost shrimp and African dwarf frogs. However, to add to those 'friends', the tank size and filtration system had to be increased to keep everything healthy and clean.