Black Orchid Betta Complete Care Guide: Updated| 2024

The Black Orchid Betta is a beautiful and unique fish perfect for any aquarium. They are peaceful and relatively easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for beginner aquarists. These fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are native to Thailand.

A Black Orchid Betta is a bold option for your next fish purchase. Its dark colors and large fins make a dramatic statement in any home aquarium.

While these fish are typically peaceful, they can be aggressive towards other bettas and should not be kept with them.

Even beginners can have success caring for Black Orchid Bettas. These fish are relatively hardy and can withstand various water conditions. They are also not picky eaters and will accept most commercially prepared foods.

If you want to know more about Black Orchid Bettas, read on for everything you need to know about these beautiful fish.

Species Summary

Scientific name:	Betta splendens
Other names:	Siamese fighting fish, Black Orchid Betta
Family:	Osphronemidae
Color:	Black with iridescence
Origin:	Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos
Average adult size:	Up to 3 inches
Lifespan:	Up to 3 years in captivity, 3-6 years in the wild
Habitat:	Typically found in stagnant or slow-moving waters
Behavior:	Peaceful but can be aggressive towards other bettas
Minimum tank size:	10 gallons (38 L)
Water type:	Freshwater
Water temperature:	72°-80° F
pH:	6.0-8.0
Water Hardness:	12-25 dGH
Activity Level:	Semi-active
Sociability:	Best kept alone or in pairs
Tankmates:	Avoid other bettas
Gender Differences:	Males have longer fins and brighter colors
Care Level:	Moderate
Breeding:	Moderately difficult
Temperament:	Aggressive
Compatibility:	Kept singly or with peaceful shoaling fish
Diet	Omnivorous accepts most commercially prepared foods
Feeding frequency	2-3 times per day

The scientific name for Black Orchid Bettas is Betta splendens. These fish are also commonly known as Siamese fighting fish or simply bettas. They are native to Southeast Asia and can be found in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos.

Black Orchid Bettas get their name from their beautiful black coloration with iridescent highlights. They belong to the family Osphronemidae, which contains a variety of other betta species. These fish are known for their long fins and beautiful colors.

They are typically found in stagnant or slow-moving waters. This could include ponds, swamps, rice paddies, and ditches. They are not often found in fast-moving rivers or streams.

There isn’t much oxygen in these stagnant waters, so bettas have evolved to be able to breathe from the surface. They have a specialized organ called a labyrinth that allows them to do this.

The natural habitat of Black Orchid Bettas is under threat from humans. The use of pesticides and herbicides in rice paddies has led to a decline in these fish. They are also popular pets, often captured from the wild to be sold in pet stores.

The cost of Black Orchid Bettas varies depending on where you purchase them. They are widely available in pet stores and online. You can expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $20 for one of these fish.

Black Orchid Appearance

Black Orchid Bettas are territorial and aggressive fish. They are known for their long fins and beautiful colors. Their body shape is similar to that of other bettas. They have long, slender bodies with small heads. Their fins are large and flowy, and they have long tails.

The males have more extended fins than the females and tend to be more brightly colored.

Males are typically black with iridescent highlights. Their fins can be a variety of colors, including blue, green, red, or purple. Females are usually less brightly colored than males, but they can still be quite beautiful.

The juveniles of this species are typically less brightly colored than the adults. They are usually gray or brown with some iridescent highlights. As they age, they will begin to develop more color.

Black Orchid Size & Growth Rate

The size of Black Orchid Bettas varies depending on the gender of the fish. Males tend to be larger than females and can reach up to 3 inches in length. Females are typically smaller, only reaching about 2 inches in length.

The growth rate of Black Orchid Bettas is relatively fast. These fish can grow up to 1 inch per month when young. They will reach their full size in about 6 months to 1 year.

Black Orchid Lifespan

The lifespan of Black Orchid Bettas is 3 to 5 years in captivity. In the wild, these fish live only for 3 to 6 years. Water quality is the main factor influencing Black Orchid Bettas’ lifespan.

However, some reports of bettas living up to 10 years in captivity. These fish can live longer if they are well cared for and have high-quality water.

Black Orchid Betta Behavior & Temperament

Black Orchid Bettas are territorial and can be aggressive toward other fish. They should only be kept with other fish that are of a similar size.

They are also known to be fin nippers. They may nip the fins of other fish, so it is important to only keep them with fish that have similar-sized fins. They are generally peaceful towards humans and make good pets.

Keeping them singly is recommended since they will fight with each other if kept in pairs or groups. If you spot your Black Orchid Betta heading up to the surface for air more frequently than usual, this could be a sign of stress, and you should check the water quality immediately. 

The temperament of the Black Orchid Betta can vary depending on the individual fish. Some fish may be more aggressive than others.

Black Orchid Betta Breeding

To breed Black Orchid Bettas, you must purchase a breeding pair. It is best to choose a male and female that are both healthy and of equal size.

You will also need a breeding tank of at least 10 gallons. The tank should be set up with plenty of hiding places and plants.

The water temperature should be between 72° to 80° Fahrenheit. The pH should be between 6.5 and 7.0.

The male and female Black Orchid Betta should be placed in the breeding tank to induce spawning. The female will lay many eggs, which the male will then fertilize.

The eggs will hatch within 24-48 hours. The fry will be free-swimming within a week.

The fry should be fed live food such as brine shrimp or micro worms. They can also be given finely ground flake food.

As the fry grows, it should be moved to larger tanks. Black Orchid Bettas reach adulthood at around 6 months of age.

Black Orchid Betta Care

Black Orchid Bettas are relatively easy to care for. These fish are hardy and can withstand a wide range of water conditions. They are also easy to find in pet stores and online.

The biggest challenge in caring for them is providing them with enough space. These fish need at least 10 gallons of water per fish.

It is best to keep them in groups of 5 or more, but they can also be kept singly. Providing plenty of hiding places is essential if you decide to keep them in a group.

They are territorial fish and will often fight with each other. It is essential to provide them with plenty of space to avoid aggression.

Their diet should consist of live, frozen, or freeze-dried foods. They will also accept pellets and flakes. Providing them with a varied diet is essential to ensure they get all the nutrients they need.

Black Orchid Bettas are relatively easy to breed in captivity. The biggest challenge is finding a suitable mate.

Here we will discuss everything you need to know about caring for Black Orchid Bettas.

Black Orchid Betta Food & Diet

They are carnivores, and their diet should consist mainly of live food.

Live food can include:

• Bloodworms
• Brine shrimp
• Daphnia
• Mosquito larvae

You can also give your Black Orchid Betta frozen or freeze-dried foods.

These foods can include:

• Bloodworms
• Krill
• Brine shrimp
• Daphnia

You can give your Black Orchid Betta live or frozen foods high in protein for snacks.

These foods can include:

• Mealworms
• Crickets
• Waxworms
• Insect larvae

It is essential to offer a variety of foods to ensure that the fish get all the nutrients they need.

Black Orchid Betta Diet Foods To Avoid

You should avoid feeding some foods to your Black Orchid Betta. These foods can be harmful and even fatal.

Foods to avoid include:

• Processed foods
• Foods that contain artificial colors or flavors
• Foods that contain preservatives
• Canned foods

You should also avoid feeding your Black Orchid Betta live food that has been caught in the wild. These foods can contain parasites or toxins that can harm the fish.

The Importance Of A Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is essential for all animals, including Black Orchid Bettas. A healthy diet will help keep the fish healthy and disease-free. A healthy diet will also help to prevent obesity, which can lead to health problems.

It also helps give the fish the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. A diet lacking in nutrients can cause the fish to become stunted or even die.

Black Orchid Betta Feeding Schedule

How often you feed your Black Orchid Betta will depend on their age and size. Juvenile fish should be fed 2-3 times per day. Adult fish should be fed 1-2 times per day.

It is essential only to give the fish as much food as they can eat in one sitting. Any uneaten food should be removed from the tank.

Black Orchid Betta Tank Size

The minimum tank size for Black Orchid Bettas is 10 gallons. These fish need plenty of space to swim and explore. They also need hiding places to avoid aggression.

It is best to keep them in groups of 5 or more, but they can also be kept singly. Providing plenty of hiding places is essential if you decide to keep them in a group.

When setting up your tank, using a filter and heater is essential.

Water Parameters

Black Orchid Bettas are tropical fish that need warm water to survive. The ideal water temperature for these fish is 72° to 80° Fahrenheit. They can also tolerate a wide range of pH levels, from 6.0 to 8.0. Maintaining a stable temperature and pH level in their tank is essential.

The water hardness for these fish should be between 12 and 25 dH.

The water should also be well-filtered and free of ammonia, nitrites, and other toxins. It is also essential to perform regular water changes to keep the tank clean.

Filtration

They need a well-filtered tank. The water should be free of ammonia, nitrites, and other toxins. It is also essential to perform regular water changes to keep the tank clean.

A good filter will help keep the water clean and provide a suitable environment for the fish.

Some recommended filters for Black Orchid Bettas are:

• The Fluval external filter
• The Eheim classic external filter
• The Aqua Clear power filter

Substrate

They do best in an aquarium with a dark substrate. A dark substrate will help to bring out their colors.

Some recommended substrates for Black Orchid Bettas are:

• The Eco-Complete Planted Aquarium Substrate
• The Aqua Culture Aquarium Substrate
• The Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum

Heating

Black Orchid Bettas need a heater to maintain a stable water temperature. The ideal water temperature for these fish is 72° to 80° Fahrenheit.

Some recommended heaters for them are:

• The Fluval aquarium heater
• The Eheim Jager aquarium heater
• The Aqua Clear aquarium heater

Plants

Black Orchid Bettas do best in an aquarium with live plants. Plants provide them with hiding places and oxygenate the water.

Plants also help to provide bettas with a natural diet.

Some recommended plants for them are:

• Java Fern
• The Anubias plant
• The Hornwort plant

Lighting

They do best in an aquarium with low lighting. The light should not be too bright or too dim.

Some recommended lighting for Black Orchid Bettas are:

• The Fluval Aqua-Glo fluorescent light
• The Eheim Aqua-Glo LED light
• The Aqua Clear Power LED light

Fertilizers

They do best in an aquarium with live plants. Plants provide them with hiding places and oxygenate the water.

Plants also help to provide bettas with a natural diet. Fertilizers are not necessary, but they can help to promote plant growth.

Some recommended fertilizers for Black Orchid Bettas are:

• The Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum
• The Eheim Plant-It Fertilizer
• The Aqua Clear Power Plant Fertilizer

Co2 Systems

They do best in an aquarium with live plants. Plants provide them with hiding places and oxygenate the water.

A Co2 system is unnecessary but can help promote plant growth.

Some recommended Co2 systems for Black Orchid Bettas are:

• The Fluval Pressurized CO2 Kit
• The Eheim CO2 System
• The Aqua Clear Power CO2 System

Water Conditioners

Water conditioners are unnecessary but can help create a more stable environment.

Some recommended water conditioners for Black Orchid Bettas are:

• The API Tap Water Conditioner
• The Seachem Prime Water Conditioner
• The Aqua Clear Power Water Conditioner

Decorations

They do best in an aquarium with live plants. Plants provide them with hiding places and oxygenate the water.

Some recommended decorations for Black Orchid Bettas are:

• The GloFish Aquarium Decoration
• The Aqua Culture Aquarium Decoration
• The Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum

Other Tank Accessories

There are a few other things that you will need for your Black Orchid Betta aquarium.

These include:

• The Aqua Culture 10-gallon fishnet
• The Fluval Edge algae magnet
• The API Leaf Zone Aquarium Plant Food

Water Changes

Water changes are significant for all aquariums but essential for Black Orchid Bettas. They are susceptible to water quality and changes in water parameters. It is best to do a water change of at least 50% once a week.

It also helps to add a water conditioner to the aquarium during a water change. This will help to remove any chlorine or chloramine from the tap water.

To change the water, you will need the following:

• A clean bucket
• A gravel vacuum
• A water conditioner

The steps to changing the water are:

• Remove the lid from the aquarium.
• Place the bucket next to the aquarium.
• Use the gravel vacuum to remove 25% of the water from the aquarium.
• Discard this water in a sink or bathtub.
• Fill the bucket with tap water and add the water conditioner.
• Stir the water until the water conditioner is dissolved.
• Pour the water into the aquarium.
• Repeat steps 3-7 until you have removed 50% of the water from the aquarium.

Cleaning The Tank

In addition to water changes, you will also need to clean the tank regularly. This includes cleaning the glass, decorations, and gravel.

To clean the glass, you will need the following:

• A clean sponge: This sponge should be dedicated to aquarium use only.
• A clean cloth: This cloth should be dedicated to aquarium use only.

Some recommended cleaners for cleaning the glass are:

• The Fluval Edge Glass Cleaner
• The Aqua Culture Glass and Surface Cleaner

To clean the decorations, you will need the following:

• A clean sponge: This sponge should be dedicated to aquarium use only.
• A clean toothbrush: This toothbrush should be dedicated to aquarium use only.

Some recommended cleaners for cleaning decorations are:

• The Fluval Edge Decoration Cleaner
• The Aqua Culture Decoration Cleaner

To clean the gravel, you will need the following:

• A clean bucket: This bucket should be dedicated to aquarium use only.
• A gravel vacuum will help remove any debris from the gravel.

Some recommended cleaners for cleaning gravel are:

• The Fluval Edge Gravel Cleaner
• The Aqua Culture Gravel Cleaner

The steps to cleaning the tank are as follows:

• Remove the lid from the aquarium.
• Place the bucket next to the aquarium.
• Use the gravel vacuum to remove 25% of the water from the aquarium.
• Discard this water in a sink or bathtub.
• Clean the glass with a sponge and cleaner.
• Rinse the sponge and cloth in clean water.
• Use the toothbrush to clean the decorations.
• Rinse the toothbrush in clean water.
• Clean the gravel with a vacuum and cleaner.
• Rinse the bucket in clean water.
• Repeat steps 3-10 until you have removed 50% of the water from the aquarium.

Cleaning The Filter

It is essential to clean the filter regularly. This will help to remove any debris and build-up from the filter media.

To clean the filter, you will need the following:

• A clean bucket: This bucket should be dedicated to aquarium use only.

Some recommended cleaners for cleaning filters are:

• The Fluval Edge Filter Cleaner
• The Aqua Culture Filter Cleaner

The steps to cleaning the filter are as follows:

• Remove the lid from the aquarium.
• Place the bucket next to the aquarium.
• Use the gravel vacuum to remove 25% of the water from the aquarium.
• Discard this water in a sink or bathtub.
• Clean the filter media with a filter cleaner.
• Rinse the filter media in clean water.
• Repeat steps 3-6 until you have removed 50% of the water from the aquarium.

Adding Black Orchid Bettas To Your Tank

Now that everything is set up and cleaned, you can add your Black Orchid Bettas to the tank.

When adding Black Orchid Bettas to your tank, it is essential to acclimate them to the water conditions. This process slowly introduces the fish to the new water conditions and helps to reduce stress.

To acclimate your Black Orchid Bettas, you will need the following:

• A clean bucket: This bucket should be dedicated to aquarium use only.
• An air stone: This will help to aerate the water.
• An air pump: This will provide the air for the air stone.

Some recommended acclimation kits are:

• The Fluval Edge Acclimation Kit
• The Aqua Culture Acclimation Kit

The steps to acclimate your Black Orchid Bettas are as follows:

• Remove the lid from the aquarium.
• Place the bucket next to the aquarium.
• Use the gravel vacuum to remove 25% of the water from the aquarium.
• Discard this water in a sink or bathtub.
• Place the air stone in the bucket.
• Connect the air pump to the airstone.
• Turn on the air pump.
• Place the Black Orchid Bettas in the bucket.
• Slowly add 1 cup of water from the aquarium to the bucket every 10 minutes.
• After 30 minutes, the Black Orchid Bettas can be added to the aquarium.

Testing The Water

It is essential to test the water regularly. This will help ensure that the water conditions are optimal for the fish.

To test the water, you will need the following:

• A clean bucket: This bucket should be dedicated to aquarium use only.
• A water testing kit: This will help identify any water quality problems.

Some recommended water testing kits are:

• The Fluval Edge Water Test Kit
• The Aqua Culture Water Test Kit
• The API Freshwater Master Test Kit

You must follow the instructions in your water testing kit to test the water. Most kits will require you to take a sample of water from the aquarium and add it to a testing vial. Then, you will add drops of reagent to the water and compare the color to the chart in the kit.

The following are the levels that should be maintained in the aquarium:

• Ammonia – 0 ppm
• Nitrite – 0 ppm
• Nitrate – 20-40 ppm

Common Possible Diseases

There are a few common diseases that can affect Black Orchid Bettas. These diseases can be caused by poor water quality, stress, or parasites.

The following are some common diseases that can affect them:

• Ich
• Fin rot  
• Dropsy  

If you notice these symptoms in your Black Orchid Bettas, taking them to a vet specializing in fish is essential. A vet will be able to diagnose and treat the disease properly.

Signs That Your Black Orchid Betta Is Sick

There are a few signs that you can look for that will indicate that your Black Orchid Betta is sick. These signs include:

• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Discoloration
• Clamped fins
• Gasping at the surface of the water

If you notice any of these signs in your Black Orchid Betta, you must take them to a vet specializing in fish. A vet will be able to diagnose and treat the disease properly.

Black Orchid Betta Preventing Diseases

The best way to prevent diseases is to maintain optimal water conditions. This means you must test the water regularly and ensure the levels are within the correct range. It is also essential to keep the tank clean and free of debris.

Another way to prevent diseases is to quarantine new fish before adding them to the tank. To do this, you must set up a separate tank for quarantining new fish.

The steps to quarantine new fish are as follows:

• Set up the quarantine tank.
• Add the new fish to the quarantine tank.
• Monitor the fish for signs of disease.
• If the fish shows any signs of disease, treat them immediately.
• After two weeks, the fish can be added to the main tank.

Adding plants to the tank can also help to prevent diseases. Plants will help to keep the water clean and free of toxins.

Some recommended plants for Black Orchid Bettas are:

• Hornwort
• Java Fern
• Anubias
• Water sprite

Plants can also provide hiding places for the fish. This can help to reduce stress, which can also prevent diseases.

Treatment And Medications Of Diseases

If you notice that your Black Orchid Betta is sick, taking them to a vet specializing in fish is essential. A vet will be able to diagnose and treat the disease properly.

The following are some common medications that can be used to treat diseases in Black Orchid Bettas:

• Anti-fungal medication: This can be used to treat fungal infections.
• Anti-bacterial medication: This can be used to treat bacterial infections.
• Anti-parasitic medication: This can be used to treat parasitic infections.

It is essential to follow the instructions on the packaging of the medication. Overdosing the fish can be harmful and even fatal.

How To Choose A Healthy Black Orchid Betta

When choosing a Black Orchid Betta, choosing one that is healthy is essential. There are a few things that you can look for that will indicate that the fish is healthy.

These signs include:

• Clear eyes
• Fins that are not ripped or shredded
• Smooth scales
• No white spots or other signs of parasites

A healthy Black Orchid Betta is also active and has a good appetite. If you are unsure whether or not the fish is healthy, it is always best to err on the side of caution and choose another fish.

Black Orchid Betta Tank Mates

Black Orchid Bettas are territorial and aggressive, so they should only be kept with other fish that are of a similar size. They are also known to be fin nippers. They may nip the fins of other fish, so it is important to only keep them with fish that have similar-sized fins.

Some suitable tank mates for Black Orchid Bettas include:

• Danios
• Mollies
• Tetras
• White Cloud Mountain Minnows
• Guppies
• Platies
• Swordtails
• Corydoras catfish
• Plecostomus
• Shrimps
• Snails

It is important to remember that not all Black Orchid Bettas will get along with other fish. Some fish may be more aggressive than others. It is essential to do your research before adding any fish to your tank.

Also Read: Freshwater Flounder Care Guide

Fish To Avoid

• Bettas
• Gouramis
• Angels
• Barbs

Like the Black Orchid Betta, anything with long-flowing fins may nip at them.

Advantages Of Having Black Orchid Betta In Your Tank

The first advantage is that these fish are lovely to look at. They have long fins, and their bodies are a deep black color.

They are also relatively easy to care for if you provide them with the proper water conditions and diet.

Another advantage of keeping Black Orchid Bettas is that they generally get along well with other fish. They are not as aggressive as some other types of bettas.

Disadvantages Of Having Black Orchid Betta In Your Tank

The most significant disadvantage of keeping Black Orchid Bettas is that they are territorial and aggressive. They should only be kept with other fish that are of a similar size.

They are also known to be fin nippers. They may nip the fins of other fish, so it is important to only keep them with fish that have similar-sized fins.

Another disadvantage is that they are not as widely available as other bettas. This can make them more expensive to purchase.

Wrapping Up

As you can see, keeping Black Orchid Bettas has both advantages and disadvantages. These fish are beautiful and relatively easy to care for but can be aggressive and territorial.

If you are thinking about keeping one of these fish, be sure to do your research first. Ensure you are prepared to provide them with the proper water conditions and diet.

I hope this article has helped you learn more about Black Orchid Bettas. Thanks for reading!