Betta fish do pose certain risks, primarily manifested in the fighting risks caused by their aggressiveness, the risk of disease infection, and the costs and difficulties associated with their care. The details are as follows:
I. Fighting Risks Caused by Aggressiveness
Aggressiveness of Male Betta Fish: Male betta fish have a strong inherent aggressiveness, which is determined by their genes. In the wild, male bettas attract mates and drive off rivals by displaying their bodies and flaring their fins. This aggressiveness has been further intensified in artificially bred varieties, especially those used for "betta fighting competitions." When two male bettas are placed in the same tank, they are likely to engage in fierce fights, resulting in injury or even death.
Manifestations of Fighting Behavior: During fights, betta fish exhibit aggressive actions such as flaring their fins, stiffening their bodies, swimming rapidly, and ramming into each other. These behaviors are intended to intimidate opponents and secure victory. Throughout the fight, a betta’s body color may change—becoming either more vibrant or duller—as a way to intimidate rivals or conceal itself.
Consequences of Fighting: Fights can lead to injuries in betta fish, such as torn fins or damaged skin. In extreme cases, fights may even result in the death of the fish. Therefore, keeping betta fish in separate tanks is an effective way to avoid the risks of fighting.
II. Risk of Disease Infection
Disease Issues in Wild Betta Fish: Without human intervention for disinfection and sterilization, wild betta fish may carry pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi. These pathogens can cause diseases in bettas, such as bacterial infections like dropsy. Treating these diseases can be challenging and, in some cases, may even lead to the fish’s death.
Parasitic Infections: Wild betta fish may also harbor parasites, which are divided into internal and external types. Internal parasites live in the betta’s internal organs, blood, intestines, and other tissues—examples include coccidia, various tapeworms, and blood flukes. External parasites attach themselves to the betta’s body surface, gills, and fins, such as dactylogyrus, trichodina, anchor worms, and fish lice. These parasites pose a threat to the betta’s health.
III. Costs and Difficulties of Care
Space Requirements: Betta fish need a relatively large, individual living space to display their bright body colors and flowing fins. Keeping them in groups goes against their natural habits and may cause harm to their mental and physical health. Therefore, to meet their space needs, significant investments in large fish tanks, filtration equipment, and other supplies are necessary.
Difficulty in Water Quality Management: Betta fish have high requirements for water quality, including the need to control parameters like pH levels. Maintaining small water volumes is particularly challenging, as water quality can fluctuate easily. To keep water quality stable, regular water changes, tank cleanings, and the addition of water conditioners are required.
Economic Costs: Caring for betta fish involves certain economic costs, including expenses for purchasing the fish itself, tanks, filtration equipment, water conditioners, food, and other supplies. Additionally, if a betta dies due to fighting or disease, it results in further economic loss.