Choosing a healthy betta fish is essential for a long and happy life. Bettas with dull colors or weak behavior are more prone to disease. Here’s a step-by-step guide to picking the best fish.
1. Look for Active Swimming
- Healthy bettas move around the tank and respond to nearby movement.
- Occasional resting is normal, but avoid fish that stay at the bottom or float at the surface.
2. Check Color and Vibrancy
- Bright, vibrant colors indicate good health.
- Pale or faded fish may be stressed, ill, or poorly fed.
3. Inspect Fins and Tail
- Fins should be fully open, free from tears or holes.
- Clamped or ragged fins are a sign of stress or infection.
4. Examine Eyes and Scales
- Eyes should be clear, not cloudy.
- Scales should lie flat; pinecone-like scales indicate dropsy (a serious disease).
5. Observe Breathing
- Gills should move calmly, not rapidly.
- Constant gasping at the surface suggests gill problems or poor water quality.
6. Check for Disease
- Avoid fish with white spots, fuzzy patches, wounds, bloated bellies, or emaciation.
Pro Tips
- Watch the fish eat; a healthy betta will actively eat when fed.
- Male bettas should flare fins at their reflection or another fish.
- Inspect the store tanks—if multiple fish appear sick, consider a different seller.
Selecting a bright, alert, and responsive betta ensures a strong start for your fish-keeping journey.
