Here’s the optimal water temperature range for betta fish and management suggestions:
I. Ideal Temperature Zones
Regular Feeding: The ideal range is 24–28°C. When the temperature is 25–26°C, bettas have the best metabolism, vibrant body colors, and strong appetite.
Variations by Species:
Round - tailed bettas prefer 24–27°C.
Fork - tailed bettas (such as Vietnamese black and HK black fork) adapt to 20–25°C, with more prominent body colors at 22–24°C.
Albino varieties (like White Rabbit and Blue Flame) need to be stabilized at 25–28°C to reduce stress.
II. Risks of Critical Temperatures
Low Temperature:
Appetite decreases below 20°C, and they may refuse food below 18°C.
Prolonged exposure below 10°C can lead to hibernation or even death.
High Temperature:
Above 30°C, it easily causes oxygen deprivation and "tail - burning disease" (caudal fin ulceration).
Above 35°C, acute oxygen deprivation may occur.
III. Seasonal Management Tips
Summer:
Use fans or duckweed for shading to cool down, preventing water temperature from exceeding 28°C.
Reduce feeding frequency during high temperatures.
Winter:
In northern regions, use a heater to maintain 22–24°C.
In southern regions, they can overwinter naturally if room temperature is suitable, but prevent sudden temperature changes.
Breeding Period: Raise the temperature to 26–27°C to stimulate spawning behavior.
IV. Other Precautions
Water Quality Collaboration: Maintain neutral water with pH 6.5–7.2 and dissolved oxygen ≥5mg/L.
Equipment Recommendations: Use a heater with a thermometer for real - time monitoring. The temperature difference between new and old water should not exceed 1°C when changing water.
(Note: The suitable water temperature for Siamese bettas is 24–28°C, which differs from Chinese bettas.)