Here’s the detailed advice on the space requirements for betta fish, which mainly depend on the breeding method and fish tank type:
1. Single Betta Fish Keeping
Minimum Space: It’s recommended to use at least a 5-gallon (about 20 liters) tank or a square tank measuring 15cm×15cm.
Ideal Size: A square tank ranging from 20-40cm is better, as it provides ample swimming space and reduces the risk of the fish hitting the tank walls.
Drawbacks of Too Small a Tank: A 10cm tank restricts the betta’s movement, makes water quality hard to control, and increases the risk of injury.
2. Community Betta Fish Keeping
Quantity Requirement: For community keeping, it’s suggested to have 10 or more bettas to disperse territorial conflicts, with at least 10 liters of water per fish.
Space Allocation: A larger container is needed for community keeping (e.g., add an extra 10 liters of space for each additional betta).
3. Other Precautions
Water Quality Management: Small tanks require more frequent water changes (1/4 of the water volume weekly).
Environmental Enrichment: Adding aquatic plants or hiding spots is recommended to enhance the betta’s sense of security.
Conclusion: For single keeping, a square tank of 20 liters or more is recommended. For community keeping, expand the space proportionally to the number of bettas, and pay close attention to water quality and environmental setup.