Intro

[LaurieChevy]

Hi, My 11 year old daughter received a fish tank for her birthday in September and we got her a betta. I had no idea how interactive and playful fish could be and my daughter even began training him. Unfortunately, we’ve learned a lot the hard way. Introduced two tetras which the betta fought/ killed, but not without receiving an injury… which led to a cottony fungal growth and fin rot. Lots of research and he recovered from all that only to jump from his tank and die. Sad life lesson for my daughter. The next betta got sick when I tried to fix the ph and accidentally spiked it… Better to be off but stable. We are on number 3. Hopefully we’ve learned enough to keep him alive. All things fishy have become kind of an obsession…

 

[Redshark1]

Yes beginning is tough but at least in the modern world the information to learn how is readily available. The nitrogen cycle, which you didn't mention, is key as fish excrete toxic ammonia in their wastes into the water they live in and this needs processing to prevent stress, disease and death.

 

[3Fishnight]

Usually bettas wont jump as long as they are comfortable in their environment.

 

[Rose of Sharon]

Hi and welcome to Fishlore! So glad you joined!

So sorry about your Betta troubles. Sounds like you have done a lot of reading and research already. We do have a lot of folks here who are well versed in Betta keeping, so if ever you have questions, we are here to help!

And like Redshark1 and BadAdvice15 mentioned, the nitrogen cycle is key to keeping any fish healthy, along with good food with little to no additives and fillers, proper tank temperature, and appropritate tank mates. And pristine water always helps in preventing health issues, so water changes can help a lot.

As for Bettas, many are mass bred and are often genetically weak, especially those from big chain stores. But they are super fun and tend to have great personalities! If you have access to a local fish store rather than a PetSmart or Petco, you might do better with them in getting a quality Betta. You might also have a local betta breeder, depending on where you are. And Bettas can be jumpers, so best to have a tank with a decent fitting lid.

And I think most members here can relate to being obsessed with the hobby. Just wait until MTS hits you (multiple tank syndrome).