Betta fish are carnivorous and require a protein-rich diet for optimal health. To ensure maximum nutritional value, they should be offered an array of live or frozen food sources whenever possible.
As a general guideline, feed your betta 1.8 grams daily.
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Pellets
Pellets are an essential part of a betta fish’s diet and should be provided twice daily. When selecting a pellet for your betta, make sure it is specifically manufactured for this species with all necessary ingredients included.
Betta pellets should contain protein from meat-based sources to aid your betta’s digestive system in processing food more quickly.
Dry pellets and flakes can also pose issues for bettas, as they expand in the water and can block their gastrointestinal tract. If these items get stuck in a fish’s throat, it could prove fatal.
Baby bettas, also known as fries, should be fed a meal of pellets and fresh or freeze-dried foods once or twice a day to promote growth. The pellets should not be larger than their eyes and should float so they don’t have to struggle when trying to eat.
Frozen Bloodworms
Betta food favorites often include bloodworms. Not only are they an excellent source of protein and nutrients for bettas, but they make for a tasty treat as well. You can find bloodworms in various sizes to suit any size pet’s requirements.
Freeze dried bloodworms are a convenient option for aquarium owners as they’re easy to store and have an extended shelf life. Unfortunately, these creatures lack the nutritional value of live bloodworms, making them unsuitable if given too often.
You can purchase frozen or freeze-dried bloodworms at your local pet store or online. When shopping for bloodworms, opt for high quality products in order to avoid harmful bacteria and parasites.
Daphnia
If you’re searching for a nutritious food your betta fish will enjoy, daphnia is the ideal choice. There are various kinds of daphnia available: live, frozen and freeze-dried varieties.
Daphnia are filter feeders and feed on algae, microorganisms and other detritus. Not only that but they’re a great source of protein and fiber as well.
Bettas should receive 1.8 grams of daphnia daily to ensure they get all the essential nutrients.
Insects
Bettas are naturally carnivores and in the wild they subsist on insects and insect larvae. Feeding your pet betta this type of diet can not only replicate their natural diet, but it will also stimulate their senses.
Mosquito larvae are an excellent addition to your betta’s diet. You can either raise them from scratch in a starter culture or purchase them from an established retailer.
Bloodworms are an excellent source of nutrition for bettas. These aquatic creatures live in stagnant water and come in various sizes – the wingless variety being particularly suitable for tank-kept pets.
Overfeeding betta fish can be detrimental to their health, as the food will decompose and become ammonia-rich. Conversely, an underweight betta will not be able to digest food properly and may succumb to malnourishment.
Vegetables
Bettas tend to be selective eaters, taking pleasure in peas and cucumber or only nibbling at green leafy vegetables like spinach. As with all fish species, they will let you know when they’re having enough.
Vegetables should first be boiled for a few seconds to soften them and make them easier for your betta to consume. Boiling also helps break down cellulosic barriers that might prevent your betta from swallowing it properly.
As a treat for your betta, you can offer them frozen or freeze-dried vegetables. Be mindful not to overfeed as this could lead to constipation.
