AboutBrit Brit Expertise I can answer your questions about Bettas, most Freshwater Tropical Fish, compatibility between tropical freshwater fish, tips on how to set up a new aquarium, what fish to add, what temperature your tank should be at, etc.
I can answer questions about goldfish, and I know a bit about aquarium plants.
I can't answer questions concerning anything marine, I know nothing about koi ponds, and even less about Cichlid breeding. So please don't ask.
If I am not sure about something, I will try to research it for you and get back to you very quickly.
I cannot magically cure your fish over the web, unfortunately, so please remember your fish's health depends solely on you.
Also, don't expect a detailed answer if I have not been given a detailed question. I can only do so much!
Details, details, details!!
(It does state what I need on the Ask A Question Page)
Experience I take care of over 3000 fish daily. I worked at Petsmart for a few years, and have had training in many areas, including aquaria and all the basics to keep fish happy and healthy. I met quite a few experts in the hobby and have learned a lot from them, and they have learned a lot from me :)
Also, I have done a lot of research and studying on my own time about not just fish but a lot of different house pets because I like to help people and help their pets.
Education/Credentials Petsmart training
Adult Diploma
Expert: Brit Brit Date: 7/23/2008 Subject: Male Betta behavior
Question Hi! I wanted to ask your opinion about male Bettas. I've been told it is awful for them to be able to see each other at all. I've been thinking about putting my 3 males in a divided tank where they can see each other but not touch, but I don't want to cause them stress or make them unhappy. All 3 are young males (between 3 and 4 months old). What is your opinion or experience? Thanks in advance!
Answer I don't recommend it for several reasons. One being that yes, I do beleive it causes them stress, due to the fact that for the most part they will constantly be on guard, worrying that the other fish might try to steal it's "territory". (Which is reasonable of course, because the betta is very territorial - hence the name "Siamese Fighting Fish")
Another reason would be the fact that a divided tank will be much harder to clean, and much more stressful to the fish if you constantly have to move them in and out of the tank in order to do water changes safely.
Also, divided tanks will restrict aeration, and greatly shorten the amount of surface area, which is more important for a betta than most other fish, since they have labyrinth organs; through which they breath oxygen at the surface of the water. They have this organ because of the long, but shallow rice paddies they originate from in Asia where they have plenty of surface area but not much depth to the water. This fact is largely the reason for so many misconceptions about bettas - such as Betta's prefer "tiny bowls/tanks" and "dirty water", both of which are far from true.
I hope this has helped you in better understanding the needs of your Siamese Fighting Fishes! And please feel free to write back again if more questions arise.
