The King Betta is a subspecies of the Siamese fighting fish. It is also known as the Crown Tail Betta(CTB). The King Betta is native to Thailand and Cambodia. It was first discovered in 1836 by a German naturalist Johann Baptist von Spix.
King Bettas are very popular among aquarium hobbyists due to their unique appearance and relatively docile personality. They are easy to care for and make great beginner fish.
There are two reasons why King Bettas are called “crown tail.” The first reason is their long, flowing fins resembling a crown. The second reason is because of the way their tail is shaped. Most bettas have an “imperial” or “double tail.”
Their tail fins are split down the middle into two separate lobes. On the other hand, King Bettas have a tail that is only split at the very tips. This gives their tails a “crown” like appearance.
This article will discuss everything you need to know about keeping King Bettas in your aquarium. We will cover diet, housing, tank mates, and more topics.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Species Summary
| Scientific name: | Betta splendens |
| Common names: | King Betta, crown tail betta, CTB |
| Family: | Osphronemidae |
| Color: | Blue, green, orange, red, yellow, purple |
| Origin: | Thailand and Cambodia |
| Size: | 2 to 2.5 inches |
| Life span: | 2 to 3 years |
| Aggression level: | Highly aggressive |
| Habitat: | These fish are found in slow-moving rivers, ponds, and marshes. |
| Behavior: | Bettas are very territorial and aggressive towards other fish. They are also known to be fin nippers |
| Tank size: | 5 gallons (19 L) |
| Temperature Range: | 72°F to 82°F |
| Water type: | Freshwater |
| pH range: | 6.8 to 7.0 |
| Care level: | Moderate |
| Diet: | Bettas are carnivores and prefer live foods |
| Feeding frequency: | Bettas should be fed 2 to 3 times per day |
The scientific name of the King Betta is Betta splendens. The King Betta is a subspecies of the Siamese fighting fish. It is also known as the crown tail betta or CTB. The King Betta is native to Thailand and Cambodia. It was first discovered in 1836 by a German naturalist Johann Baptist von Spix.
They are an ‘anabantoid’ fish. It can breathe air using a special organ called the ‘labyrinth.’ The labyrinth is just behind the betta’s head, allowing the fish to absorb oxygen. This adaptation allows bettas to live in water that is low in dissolved oxygen.
The King Betta male has a very aggressive and territorial personality. He will often attack and kill other fish. For this reason, it is recommended that King Bettas be kept in a tank by themselves. The King Betta female is not as aggressive as the male, but she should still not be kept with other fish.
The cost of a King Betta can vary depending on where you purchase it. King Bettas are typically sold for $10 to $20. But, if you purchase a King Betta from a breeder, the cost can be much higher.
King Betta Appearance
The King Betta is a beautiful fish with long, flowing fins. The male King Betta is usually more brightly colored than the female. Male King Bettas also have longer fins than females.
The most distinguishing feature of the King Betta is its tail. The tail of a King Betta is split into two lobes. This gives the tail a crown-like appearance, hence the name ‘crown tail betta.’
The fins and tails of King Bettas are exceptionally long and beautiful. The fins are so long that they can extend up to twice the length of the body.
They have a long, slender body with large eyes. The body is typically orange, red, or yellow. The fins and tail are usually blue or green. However, King Bettas can also be found in various colors, including white, black, and brown.
The King Betta differs from other bettas in a few ways. The most notable difference is the shape of the tail. Most bettas have a round or oval-shaped tail. However, the King Betta has a split tail that resembles a crown.
King Betta Size & Growth Rate
The size of a King Betta can vary depending on the individual fish. However, most King Bettas grow to be 2 to 2.5 inches long.
The growth rate of a King Betta is relatively fast. King Bettas typically reach their full size within 6 to 8 months.
King Betta Lifespan
The average lifespan of a King Betta is 2 to 3 years. However, King Bettas can live for up to 5 years with proper care.
However, several factors can shorten the lifespan of a King Betta. These include poor water quality, lack of food, and disease.
King Betta Behavior & Temperament
Because the betta is a territorial fish, keeping more than one in the same tank is not recommended. They often fight each other, leading to serious injury or death.
They are also known to be aggressive towards other animals, including fish, frogs, and even turtles. For this reason, it is essential to research the other animals you are considering keeping in your tank before adding a betta.
Bettas are generally peaceful towards humans and make good pets for children. They are also relatively easy to care for, making them a good choice for beginner fish keepers.
King Betta Breeding
Bettas can be bred in captivity, but it is a complex process experienced fish keepers should only attempt.
The female betta will lay many eggs, which the male will then fertilize. The eggs will hatch in about 24-48 hours, and the fry will be free-swimming a few days later.
The fry must be fed live foods, such as brine shrimp or bloodworms, for the first few weeks of their lives. After that, they can be slowly transitioned to pellets or flakes.
If you are interested in breeding bettas, it is important to research and ensure that you are prepared for the process. Several things can go wrong, and preparation for any eventuality is essential.
King Betta Care Guide
The King Betta requires moderate care. They are not difficult to care for but require more attention than other fish.
The tank must be clean, and the water must be changed regularly. It is also essential to provide a hiding place for the King Betta, as they are shy fish.
It is also essential to maintain the water temperature in the tank. A larger tank is better for King Bettas, as it will allow you to maintain a stable water temperature.
They are carnivores and prefer live foods. However, they will also eat frozen or freeze-dried foods. It is essential to feed them various foods to ensure they get all the nutrients they need.
We will discuss everything you need to know about caring for your King Betta, including tank size, water quality, diet, and more.
Tank Size
The minimum tank size for a King Betta is 5 gallons. However, a larger tank is always better. A 10-gallon tank is a good size for a King Betta.
When setting up your tank, it is essential to choose a filter that is appropriate for the size of your tank. A larger tank will require a more powerful filter.
It is also essential to choose a heater that is appropriate for the size of your tank. A 10-gallon tank will require a different heater than a 20-gallon tank.
Water Parameters
King Bettas are like an aquarium with moderate water parameters. The water temperature should be between 72°F to 82°F. The pH should be between 6.8 and 7.0.
The water hardness should be between 5 and 15 dH.
It is essential to maintain good water quality in the tank. The water should be changed regularly, and the filter should be cleaned frequently.
Changing 10-20% of the water weekly is a good rule of thumb. This will help keep the water quality and the King Betta healthy.
The King Betta is a sensitive fish and can be easily stressed. It is essential to avoid sudden changes in the water parameters. Abrupt changes can cause disease or even death.
Filtration
You will need a filter to keep the water in your tank clean. The size of the filter you need will depend on the size of your tank. A larger tank will require a more powerful filter.
It is essential to choose a filter that is appropriate for the King Betta. The King Betta is a shy fish who dislikes water movement. A gentle filter is best for this fish.
A good filter will have an adjustable flow rate. This will allow you to adjust the water flow to a comfortable level for the King Betta.
Some recommended filters for a King Betta tank are:
- The Aqua Clear 20 Power Filter: This filter has an adjustable flow rate and is appropriate for up to 20 gallons of tanks.
- The Fluval C2 Power Filter: This filter is appropriate for up to 15 gallons of tanks. It has an adjustable flow rate and a quiet operation.
- The Aqua Clear 50 Power Filter: This filter is appropriate for up to 50 gallons of tanks. It has an adjustable flow rate and a quiet operation.
Heating
The King Betta is a tropical fish and requires a warm water environment. The water temperature in the tank should be between 72°F to 82°F.
It is essential to choose a heater that is appropriate for the size of your tank. A larger tank will require a more powerful heater.
Some recommended heaters for a King Betta tank are:
- The Fluval Eheim Jager Aquarium Heater: This is appropriate for tanks up to 15 gallons. It has an adjustable temperature setting and a safety shut-off feature.
- The AquaTop Submersible Aquarium Heater: This is appropriate for tanks up to 20 gallons. It has an adjustable temperature setting and a safety shut-off feature.
- The Zoo Med Laboratories Aquarium Heater: This is appropriate for tanks up to 50 gallons. It has an adjustable temperature setting and a safety shut-off feature.
Plants
King Bettas are shy fish and prefer a planted aquarium. Plants will provide hiding places for the King Betta and help reduce stress.
Some recommended plants for a King Betta tank are:
- The Java Fern: This plant is easy to care for and does not require high light levels. It can be attached to driftwood or rocks.
- The Anubias Nana: This is a low-light plant that is easy to care for. It can be attached to driftwood or rocks.
- The Hornwort: This plant is easy to care for and can tolerate various water conditions. It can be floated in the tank or planted in the substrate.
Lighting
The King Betta does not require high light levels. A low-light aquarium will provide the perfect environment for this fish.
Some recommended lights for a King Betta tank are:
- The Zoo Med Naturalistic Terrarium Hood: This hood is appropriate for up to 20 gallons of tanks. It has a low profile and provides gentle lighting.
- The Fluval Plant and Shrimp LED Light: This is appropriate for up to 15 gallons of tanks. It has adjustable light settings and gentle light output.
- The Aqua Culture Aquarium Hood: This hood is appropriate for up to 50 gallons of tanks. It has an adjustable light output and provides gentle lighting.
Co2 Systems
A Co2 system is not required for a King Betta tank. However, if you plan to keep live plants in your aquarium, a Co2 system will help them thrive.
Some recommended Co2 systems for a King Betta tank are:
- The Fluval Pressurized CO2 Kit: This kit is appropriate for up to 15 gallons of tanks. It includes a pressurized Co2 tank, regulator, and Diffuser.
- The Aqua Culture Deluxe CO2 Kit: This kit is appropriate for up to 50 gallons of tanks. It includes a pressurized Co2 tank, regulator, solenoid valve, and Diffuser.
- The Zoo Med Naturalistic Terrarium Hood: This hood is appropriate for up to 20 gallons of tanks.
Water Conditioners
Using a water conditioner when setting up a King Betta tank is essential. A water conditioner will remove harmful chemicals and make it safe for your fish.
Some recommended water conditioners for a King Betta tank are:
- The Seachem Prime Water Conditioner: This conditioner is designed for freshwater and saltwater aquariums. It removes chlorine, chloramine, and ammonia from the water.
- The API Stress Coat Water Conditioner: This conditioner is designed for freshwater aquariums. It removes chlorine and chloramine from the water and helps to reduce stress in fish.
- The Tetra Aqua Safe Water Conditioner: This conditioner is designed for freshwater aquariums. It removes chlorine, chloramine, and heavy metals from the water.
Substrate
The King Betta does not require a special substrate. A basic gravel or sand substrate will be fine. However, you need a nutrient-rich substrate to keep live plants in your aquarium.
Some recommended substrates for a King Betta tank are:
- The Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum: This substrate is appropriate for up to 15 gallons of tanks. It is rich in nutrients and contains live bacteria.
- The Aqua Culture Aquarium gravel: This substrate is appropriate for up to 50 gallons of tanks. It is a basic gravel substrate that is easy to care for.
- The Zoo Med Laboratories Aquarium Soil: This substrate is appropriate for up to 20 gallons of tanks. It is rich in nutrients and helps to promote plant growth.
Decorations
The King Betta does not require a special decoration. A basic aquarium with some rocks and plants will be fine. However, if you want to add extra interest to your aquarium, you can use driftwood, rocks, or live plants.
Some recommended decorations for a King Betta tank are:
- The Fluval Mopani Driftwood: This driftwood is appropriate for up to 15 gallons of tanks. It is an interesting addition to the aquarium and provides hiding places for fish.
- The Aqua Culture Black Lava Rock: This rock is appropriate for up to 50 gallons of tanks. It is a basic black lava rock that can create interesting aquascapes.
- The Zoo Med Laboratories Betta Hammock: This decoration is appropriate for up to 20 gallons of tanks. It is a piece of driftwood that has been specially designed for bettas. It provides a place for them to rest and relax.
Other Tank Accessories
There are a few other things that you will need for your King Betta tank.
Some recommended accessories for a King Betta tank are:
- Air Pump: An air pump is not required for a King Betta tank. However, it can be used to provide additional aeration for the water.
- Aquarium Thermometer: An aquarium thermometer is a necessary accessory for any aquarium. It will help keep the water at the correct temperature for your fish.
- Water Test Kit: A water test kit is a necessary accessory for any aquarium. It will help keep your fish’s water parameters in the correct range.
Water Changes
It is important to do regular water changes in a King Betta tank. Water changes help to remove toxins and waste from the water. They also help to keep the water parameters in the correct range.
A good rule of thumb is to do a water change of 25% once a week.
To do a water change, you will need the following:
- A clean bucket: You will use this to remove the dirty water from the tank.
- A gravel vacuum: You will use this to remove debris and waste from the substrate.
- Freshwater: You will need this to refill the tank with fresh water.
- Water conditioner: You will need this to remove toxins from the fresh water.
The steps for doing a water change are as follows:
- Remove the lid from the tank and set it aside.
- Place the bucket next to the tank.
- Use the gravel vacuum to remove 25% of the water from the tank.
- Discard the dirty water in a drain or outside.
- Refill the tank with fresh water.
- Add the water conditioner to the fresh water.
- Stir the water to mix in the water conditioner.
- Put the lid back on the tank.
- Enjoy your clean and healthy aquarium!
Cleaning The Tank
In addition to doing regular water changes, you will also need to clean the tank regularly. This includes cleaning the glass, vacuuming the gravel, and cleaning the filter.
- Cleaning the glass: To clean the glass of your aquarium, you can use an algae scraper or a sponge. Be sure to scrape or sponge away all the algae from the glass.
- Vacuuming the gravel: To vacuum the gravel, you must use a gravel vacuum. A gravel vacuum is a tool used to remove debris and waste from the substrate.
To use a gravel vacuum, place the end of the tube into the substrate and suck on the other end. This will create a suction to pull the debris and waste into the tube.
Cleaning The Filter
It is essential to clean the filter regularly. A dirty filter can cause several problems, including poor water quality and unhealthy fish.
To clean the filter, remove it from the tank and disassemble it. Most filters can be disassembled by unscrewing the top. Once the top is off, you can access the filter media.
The filter media is the part of the filter that does the work of filtering the water. There are several different types of filter media, but the most common are Activated Carbon and Bio-Balls.
- Activated Carbon: Activated carbon is charcoal used to remove toxins from the water. It is a very effective filter media, but it needs to be replaced regularly.
- Bio-Balls: Bio-balls are small plastic balls that are filled with bacteria. These bacteria help to break down waste and toxins in the water. Bio-balls need not be replaced as often as activated carbon, but should be cleaned regularly.
To clean the filter media, rinse it in aquarium water. Avoid using soap or detergent, as these can harm the bacteria on the media.
Once the filter media is clean, you can reassemble the filter and put it back in the tank.
Testing The Water
It is essential to test the water regularly. This will help you to keep the water parameters in the correct range.
There are several different ways to test the water. The most common way is to use test strips. Test strips are placed in the water and then compared to a chart that will tell you the levels of different water parameters.
Another way to test the water is to use a digital meter. A digital meter will give you an accurate reading of the water parameters.
The most important water parameters to test are ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. These are all toxins that can be harmful to your fish.
- Ammonia: Ammonia is produced by the fish and their waste. It is very toxic to fish and can kill them if the levels get too high.
- Nitrites: Nitrites are produced by the bacteria that break down ammonia. They are also very toxic to fish and can kill them if the levels get too high.
- Nitrates: Nitrates are produced by the bacteria that break down nitrites. They are less toxic than ammonia and nitrites but can still harm fish if the levels get too high.
Keeping the levels of these toxins in the correct range is essential to keep the water healthy for your fish. The acceptable ranges will vary depending on the type of fish you have.
You can find the acceptable ranges for different fish species in various sources, including pet stores, aquarium books, and online.
King Betta Common Possible Diseases
Several different diseases can affect fish. Some of the most common are listed below.
- Ich: Ich is a parasitic infection that causes white spots on the fish. It is caused by a protozoan called ichthyophthirius multifiliis. Ich is very contagious and can spread quickly through an aquarium.
It is essential to treat ich as soon as possible. The most common way to treat ich is with a medication that contains the active ingredient metronidazole. This medication can be found in pet stores and online.
- Dropsy: Dropsy is a disease that causes the fish to swell up. A bacterial infection causes it. Dropsy is very contagious and can spread quickly through an aquarium. It is essential to treat dropsy as soon as possible.
The most common way to treat dropsy is with a medication that contains the active ingredient erythromycin. This medication can be found in pet stores and online.
- Fin Rot: Fin rot is a disease that causes the fish’s fins to disintegrate. A bacterial infection causes it. Fin rot is very contagious and can spread quickly through an aquarium. It is important to treat fin rot as soon as possible.
The most common way to treat fin rot is with a medication that contains the active ingredient chloramphenicol. This medication can be found in pet stores and online.
Preventing Diseases
The best way to prevent disease is to maintain a clean and healthy environment for your fish. This means keeping the water quality high and the tank clean.
It is also important to quarantine new fish before adding them to the main tank. This will allow you to monitor them for any signs of disease.
If you notice any signs of disease in your fish, treating them as soon as possible is important. The sooner you treat them, the better their chances of recovery.
Treatment And Medications Of Diseases
Several different medications can be used to treat fish diseases. The most common are listed below.
- Metronidazole: Metronidazole is an antibiotic used to treat various infections, including ich, fin rot, and dropsy. It can be found in pet stores and online.
- Erythromycin: This antibiotic can be used to treat infections in bettas. It is available in liquid and tablet form and can be found at most pet stores.
- Chloramphenicol: This antibiotic is no longer used in the aquarium hobby for several reasons. It can be very effective against gram-negative bacteria but is also quite toxic to fish and other aquatic creatures. In addition, chloramphenicol has been linked to aplastic anemia in humans, so it’s best to avoid using this medication if
- Tetracycline: Betting KingdomTetracycline is an antibiotic that fights infection caused by bacteria. Tetracycline treats many bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections, acne, gonorrhea, chlamydia, etc. Tetracycline may also be used for purposes not listed.
When using any medication, following the instructions on the package is important. Overdosing fish can be just as harmful as not treating them at all. If you are unsure how to dose the medication properly, ask a staff member at your local pet store or contact a veterinarian.
READ: Tomini Tang Fish Care Guide: Appearance, Breeding & All
King Betta Food & Diet
A carnivorous fish, the betta’s diet in the wild consists mainly of small insects, crustaceans, and other small invertebrates. In captivity, they will accept a variety of foods, including pellets, flakes, freeze-dried foods, live foods, and frozen foods.
You must offer your betta various foods to ensure they get all the nutrients they need. A diet that is too limited can lead to health problems.
Live foods, such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms, are a great way to add variety to your betta’s diet. These foods are also high in protein, which is essential for bettas.
Frozen foods, such as frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp, are also a great option. They are easy to store and can be thawed and fed to your betta.
Pellets and flakes are commercial foods formulated to meet bettas’ nutritional needs. There are a variety of brands available, so be sure to read the labels carefully to find one that is right for your fish.
King Betta Diet Foods To Avoid
There are a few foods that you should avoid feeding your betta. These include:
- Raw meat: Raw meat can contain bacteria that can harm your fish.
- Cooked meat: Cooked meat does not contain the necessary nutrients that bettas need.
- Fruit and vegetables: Fruit and vegetables are low in protein and can cause digestive problems in bettas.
- Processed foods: Processed foods, such as chips and crackers, are high in salt and fat and can harm your fish.
King Betta Feeding Schedule
Bettas should be fed once or twice a day. The food they need will depend on their size and activity level. A good rule of thumb is to feed them as much as they can eat in 2-3 minutes.
Overfeeding can lead to health problems like obesity and swim bladder disease. If you are unsure how much to feed your betta, ask a staff member at your local pet store or contact a veterinarian.
King Betta Tank Mates
Because bettas are territorial and aggressive, they should not be kept with other fish. They can, however, be kept with various invertebrates, such as snails, shrimp, and crabs.
It is important to research the compatibility of any potential tank mates before adding them to your tank. Some animals may not do well with bettas, and others may be too small and be eaten by the betta.
Some tankmates that are known to do well with bettas include:
- Cory catfish
- Ghost shrimp
- Guppies
- Kuhli Loach
- Otocinclus catfish
- Platies
- Plecos
- Snails (such as nerite snails and mystery snails)
- Tetras
If you are unsure whether a particular animal is compatible with bettas, ask a staff member at your local pet store or contact a veterinarian.
Fish To Avoid:
Some fish that should be avoided as tank mates for bettas include:
Advantages Of Having King Betta In Your Tank
The first advantage is that bettas are very low-maintenance fish. They do not need to be fed often, and they do not produce a lot of waste. This makes them ideal for beginner fish keepers.
Another advantage of bettas is that they are very hardy fish and can tolerate various environmental conditions. This means they are less likely to get sick and die than other types of fish.
Bettas are also lovely fish and come in various colors and patterns. This makes them popular for many who want to add color to their tank.
Disadvantages Of Having King Betta In Your Tank
One disadvantage of bettas is that they are very territorial and aggressive. This means that they should not be kept with other fish.
Another disadvantage of bettas is that they are known to jump out of tanks. This can be a problem if you have a small tank or if your tank does not have a lid.
Bettas are also susceptible to diseases like fin rot and velvet. This means they must be monitored closely and treated promptly if sick.
Wrapping Up
As you can see, keeping bettas in your tank has advantages and disadvantages. However, bettas can be a great addition to your tank if you are prepared for their challenges.
Do you have a betta? What do you think of them? Let us know in the comments below!
