Sunday, August 2, 2009
Are live plants better for bettas?
Answers:
Yes, because then they can munch on them...and it gives them oxygen. Make sure you leave space at the top of it's fish bowl so it can get food and can stick its head out if it needs too.
They don't mine. What they do mind about is the size tank you get for them. Just don't put them in a small jar. They also prefer still water as oppose to running water.
You must leave several inches of breathing room between the plant and fish, since Bettas are air-breathers.
You do still have to feed your Betta fish food. They will die if you think that they can live off of the plant itself. This is a rumor.
I have heard that peace lilys are good for Betta's but, it's really quite annoying to have to remove a dripping plant several times a day to feed your fish. Also, the roots need to be regularly trimmed (use sharp kitchen scissors), to prevent the active lily from taking over all the space that your betta needs for swimming. It's also hard to keep the messy roots clean when they get gunked with fish food and wastes. I hope this helps. Good Luck with your Betta! You can also do a search for "Betta's and Plants on yahoo.
Yes live plants provide oxygen and food
Live plants are best for all fish. They provide oxygen, are natural filters, and a plase for your fish to hide or rest upon. Som fish may also enjoy picking at it as a snack.
Yes, if maintained well so that dead parts of the plant don't get left in the water and rot, live plants can be good for bettas.
However, the live plants should be _inside_ the water, with their roots submerged, and not floating on the top. Bettas get their oxygen from the surface and floating plants only block up their way. That betta-and-peace-lily-in-a-vase setup, for example, is a torture device for bettas.
Also, bettas cannot feed on live plants. They are carnivores and require a high-protein diet. It is true that they will eat plants, but only if they are starving and have nothing else to eat. (Wouldn't you?) So you need to feed your betta as well.
You also need to make sure that the plant does not take up too much of the betta's tank; bettas do like their open space to swim.
