Betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are stunning aquatic pets that have captured the hearts of many. Their vibrant colours and flowing fins make them a popular choice for both novice and experienced fish keepers.
But how much do these beautiful creatures actually cost? Let’s dive into the world of betta fish and explore their prices, care requirements, and everything else you need to know.
What Colour Betta Would You Like?
Bettas come in a dazzling array of colours, from deep blues to fiery reds and even metallic hues. The colour of your betta can significantly impact its price. Here’s a breakdown of some popular colour varieties and their typical price ranges:
- Solid Colours: £5-£15
- Bi-Colours: £10-£20
- Multi-Colours: £15-£30
- Metallic/Dragon Scale: £20-£50
- Rare Colours (e.g., pure white, true black): £30-£100+
It’s worth noting that these prices can vary depending on the breeder, location, and rarity of the colour. Some exceptionally rare or show-quality bettas can fetch prices in the hundreds of pounds.
What Sort of Tail Would You Like Your Male Betta to Have?
The tail type of a male betta is another factor that influences its price. Different tail types have been selectively bred over the years, resulting in some truly spectacular fin shapes. Here are some common tail types and their approximate price ranges:
- Veiltail: £5-£15
- Crowntail: £10-£25
- Halfmoon: £15-£30
- Double Tail: £20-£40
- Plakat: £10-£30
- Rosetail: £25-£50
- Feathertail: £30-£60
Remember, these prices are just estimates. Exceptional specimens or those with rare colour and tail combinations can command much higher prices.
Do You Want to Breed Your Fighting Fish?
If you’re interested in breeding bettas, you’ll need to factor in additional costs. Breeding pairs typically cost more than individual fish, as they’re often selected for their genetic qualities. Here’s what you might expect to pay:
- Breeding Pair: £30-£100+
- Show-Quality Breeding Pair: £100-£500+
Breeding bettas also requires specialised equipment, including:
- Breeding tank: £20-£50
- Heater: £10-£30
- Sponge filter: £5-£15
- Live foods for fry: £10-£20 per month
Case Study: John, a betta breeder from Manchester, shares his experience:
“When I started breeding bettas, I invested about £200 in a pair of show-quality halfmoons. The initial setup cost me around £100, and I spend about £30 a month on food and maintenance. It’s not cheap, but seeing the fry grow into beautiful adults is incredibly rewarding.”
So What Will Betta Fish Cost?
To summarise, the cost of a betta fish can range from as little as £5 for a common veiltail to over £100 for a rare or show-quality specimen. However, the initial cost of the fish is just the beginning. Here’s a breakdown of potential costs for a single betta:
| Item | Cost Range |
| Betta Fish | £5-£100+ |
| Tank (5-10 gallons) | £20-£50 |
| Heater | £10-£30 |
| Filter | £10-£30 |
| Substrate | £5-£15 |
| Plants (live or artificial) | £10-£30 |
| Decorations | £5-£20 |
| Food | £5-£10 per month |
| Water Conditioner | £5-£10 per bottle |
Total initial setup cost: £70-£295+
Our Stock of Male Betta Fish
While we can’t provide specific stock information, most pet shops and online retailers offer a variety of male betta fish. Prices typically range from £5 to £50, depending on the colour, tail type, and quality of the fish. Always purchase from reputable sellers who prioritise the health and wellbeing of their fish.
How Much Would a Betta Fish Cost?
As we’ve explored, the cost of a betta fish can vary widely. Here’s a quick recap:
- Basic Betta: £5-£15
- Premium Betta: £20-£50
- Show-Quality or Rare Betta: £50-£100+
Remember, the cost of the fish itself is just one part of the equation. Factor in the setup and ongoing maintenance costs when budgeting for your new aquatic friend.
Is It Better to Have 1 or 2 Betta Fish?
Betta fish are known for their aggressive nature, particularly males. In most cases, it’s best to keep just one betta per tank. Here’s why:
- Male bettas are highly territorial and will fight with other males.
- Female bettas can be kept together in groups (called a sorority), but this requires careful planning and a larger tank.
- Keeping multiple bettas requires more space, equipment, and maintenance, increasing costs.
Unless you’re an experienced fish keeper, it’s generally recommended to start with a single betta.
Which Betta Is Costly?
The most expensive bettas are typically those with:
- Rare colours or patterns (e.g., pure white, true black, or unique marbling)
- Perfect form (symmetrical fins, ideal body shape)
- Unusual fin types (e.g., feathertail or rosetail)
- Show-quality genetics
These premium bettas can cost anywhere from £50 to several hundred pounds.
How Many Rupees Is a Betta Fish?
While this article uses British pounds, for those interested in the cost in Indian rupees:
- A basic betta might cost 500-1500 rupees
- A premium betta could range from 2000-5000 rupees
- Show-quality or rare bettas might cost 5000-10000+ rupees
Exchange rates and local availability can affect these prices significantly.
Can 2 Female and 1 Male Betta Fish Live Together?
It’s generally not recommended to keep 2 females and 1 male betta together. Here’s why:
- The male may become aggressive towards the females
- The females may fight with each other
- This arrangement can cause stress and potential injury to all fish involved
If you want to keep multiple bettas, consider:
- A female sorority (5+ females in a large tank)
- A single male in a community tank with other compatible species
Is My Betta a Girl or Boy?
Determining the sex of your betta can be tricky, especially for beginners. Here are some key differences:
Male Bettas:
- Longer, flowing fins
- Brighter colours
- More aggressive behaviour
- Bubble nest building
Female Bettas:
- Shorter fins
- Generally duller colours
- Visible egg spot (white spot behind ventral fin)
- Typically smaller body size
When in doubt, consult an experienced fish keeper or your local aquarium store for help identifying your betta’s sex.
FAQs
Do betta fish sleep?
Yes, bettas sleep by becoming less active and often resting near the surface or on plants.
How to tell if betta is happy?
A happy betta displays vibrant colours, swims actively, eats well, and may build bubble nests.
Will a female betta lay eggs?
Yes, female bettas can lay eggs even without a male present, though these will be infertile.
Conclusion
Betta fish are captivating pets that offer a splash of colour and personality to any home. While their costs vary, the joy they bring is priceless. Remember, responsible ownership involves more than just the initial purchase.
Proper care, including a suitable tank, balanced diet, and regular maintenance, is crucial. Whether you choose a common veiltail or a rare show-quality betta, each fish deserves love and attention. With the right knowledge and preparation, you’re set for a rewarding journey into the fascinating world of betta keeping.
