The lifespan of betta fish varies depending on their species, living conditions, and gender. Here’s a summary based on research findings:
Lifespan Range of Common Species
Siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens): They have an average lifespan of 2–3 years, but can live 4–5 years with high-quality care. Males typically outlive females by 1–2 years.
Chinese bettas: Their general lifespan is 2–3 years, with some male individuals reaching 3 years. Wild populations tend to have shorter lifespans.
Round-tailed bettas: A member of the betta family, they live up to 3 years, with their longevity closely tied to environmental health.
Key Factors Affecting Lifespan
Water quality and temperature: Maintain a pH level of 6.5–7.5 and a water temperature of 24–27°C (tropical species like Siamese fighting fish require a heater).
Care and management: Feed a moderate amount of high-protein food to avoid digestive issues, and minimize environmental stress (e.g., sudden changes in lighting).
Genetics and breeding strain: Commercial breeding may introduce genetic defects. Males often live longer as they expend less energy on reproduction.
Tips to Extend Lifespan
Choose sub-adult fish: Opt for individuals over 6 months old to avoid the effects of residual medications from fish farms.
Stabilize the environment: Use a substrate filtration system and perform regular water changes to prevent fluctuations in water quality.
Health maintenance: Stimulate activity with mirror exposure and promptly treat illnesses like fungal infections.
Special Cases and Data Variations
There’s a gap between theoretical and actual lifespans—most bettas only live 1–2 years, often due to improper care by beginners or residual medications from farms.
Extreme records: A few Siamese fighting fish have lived up to 8 years, though this is extremely rare.