Bettas are one of the best fishes to have if space and expense is a consideration. A one gallon tank is just fine, but as with most fish, bigger is better. Bettas do not need a airator, because they have an organ that enables them to breath air from the surface, called the labyrinth.

Male bettas can't be kept with other males, but must be kept seperate. Females can live together, but some will want to fight. These fish should be kept seperate from other bettas. No male bettas should be kept with other fish because the other fish will nibble their fins down, and the bettas won't fight them off.

The ideal temperature is between 78 degrees and 83 degrees. A heater can be used, but make sure to read the heater's box to see how many watts are needed to heat your size of aquarium.

Bettas need plants to swim around, and if you are going to breed bettas, plants with fine leaves are a definite consideration.

Bettas do not usually jump, so you don't have to have a lid, but it would be a good idea, just in case. Lights are optional but if you want to see the full beauty of a betta, it is a good idea to use one. You don't need a filter if you are willing to spend a little time cleaning out the tank every two weeks to a month. Otherwise buy a small filter that will accomadate your bettas tank.