The lifespan of betta fish is influenced by multiple factors such as species, gender, and feeding conditions. Based on comprehensive and highly authoritative search results, the lifespan range and key influencing factors are as follows:
I. Lifespan Range
Chinese Betta Fish
The general lifespan is 2 to 3 years. Under ideal conditions, males can live up to 3 to 5 years. If the feeding is improper (such as poor water quality and unbalanced bait), the lifespan may be less than 2 years.
Siamese Fighting Fish (Betta splendens)
Typically, their lifespan is 2 to 4 years. However, the ornamental "display period" is only about 1 year, after which their body color and condition gradually decline. Very few individuals can live up to 6 years with meticulous care.
II. Key Influencing Factors
Feeding Environment
Water Quality: Neutral soft water (pH 6.5-7.0), water temperature of 24-27°C, and dissolved oxygen content ≥ 5mg/L are required. Change 1/3 of the water regularly and clean up the residues.
Vegetation and Water Flow: Simulate the natural habitat environment by providing a shallow water area with lush water plants and slow water flow.
Nutrition and Health Management
Bait: It is recommended to feed specialized feed (≤ 5 pellets per day) to avoid gastrointestinal diseases caused by live bait.
Disease Prevention: Add Terminalia catappa leaves to adjust the water to a slightly acidic condition, which can enhance the immunity.
Behavioral Stimulation
Male betta fish need to look into a mirror regularly or have brief contact with their own kind to maintain a fighting state and delay the decline of their physical condition.
III. Other Precautions
Gender Difference: Males generally live 1 to 2 years longer than females.
Ecological Value: Betta fish can control the number of mosquitoes and optimize the ecological environment. Their scientific research value is highly regarded in fields such as zoogeography.
Conclusion: The lifespan of betta fish varies from 2 to 6 years. Chinese betta fish have a slightly longer lifespan than Siamese fighting fish. Through scientific feeding (such as maintaining stable water quality, providing balanced bait, and conducting behavioral stimulation), their lifespan and ornamental period can be significantly extended.