Why do people think that bettas are killing machines? If you do any research at all then you would find that bettas are pretty much push-overs as far as aggressive fish go. There is tons of information about them and what proper tank mates would be. They are often kept with community tropical fish.
How did they get such a ridiculous reputation?
2006-07-08 11:46:05 · 7 answers · asked by Lynn 4 in Pets ➔ Fish
same reason pit bulls are considered killing machines - because unfortunately people use them to kill each other and that is what they become known for...
bettas are peaceful fish for the most part, and people in the know need to spread the word...
2006-07-08 13:17:54 · answer #1 · answered by sammarlowe 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Hy there! My real name is Danilov and I'm a vet specialized on exotic and tropical fish. I have over 150 species in my private aquarium(s). I think I can help you with your question.
Bettas, just like any other species of fish, just like people, are not genetically programed to be aggressive and fight, just like not all the people are all the same. These fish were used by Vietnamese in gambling, when they put 2 or more bettas on one another to fight to the death. That is sad, but that they do in the wild. They are very Territorial animals, and very pretentious fish when it comes to breeding, so if a male won't like the female you put in the tank he WILL kill her if you don't remove her. As not to put the female nor the male in harms way, just put them in separate tank near each other, so that they can have a good view , one over the other. This solves "the killing spree". If the male starts getting all mad , you shouldn't put the female in his tank. This is an ambiguous task, because when a male is moody he also seem like getting ready to fight. You'll get some experience with these fish and you will be able to tell for yourself what his behavior means.
Hope I've helped you even just a little bit!
Cheers!
2006-07-09 06:05:50 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
It's just because of the Betta on Betta combat that silly idiots want to watch. They think they do the same with other fish. Actually, I've heard many stories of Betta's being attacked by other fish because their fins draw so much attention. This is why I never recommended them in certain community tanks. Tetras can be vicious when it come to fin nipping.
I believe they do better alone, in a 2-5 gallon tank with filtration.
2006-07-09 01:17:50 · answer #3 · answered by dhalia_1977 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Most bettas will not kill other fish, but the males are a bit aggressive and it is possible that they might attack other fish. Though it is very well known that they will attack one another. Females are the tamer of the two and can be put into tanks with other fish much easier.
2006-07-08 19:46:46 · answer #4 · answered by daredevil_girl013 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
first, you must know that they will attack(and kill) other bettas...
many people are unaware that they dont attack other breeds of fish....
I only found this out after about five yrs of having a betta (or 2 in different bowls..) when i walked into a pet store and noticed that there was a betta with the goldfish and guppies etc..
it is simply misinformation/ignorance that causes this undeserved reputation
2006-07-08 18:54:34 · answer #5 · answered by JB 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Because people dont educate themselfs and hear that betta will fight to the death and assume that means they attack any fish, add to that when they go to a pet store bettas are always in a small container of water alone.
2006-07-08 18:59:32 · answer #6 · answered by Trapshooter 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
i think they got a bad reputation cuz really cruel ppl buy 2 male betas and watch them kill each other
2006-07-08 22:59:21 · answer #7 · answered by ? 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋