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Aquarium Decorations for Betta Fish

Bettas have long, delicate fins and like to rest near the surface. The right decorations give them shelter, resting spots and something to explore without risking torn fins.

What bettas need from decorations

• Resting places near the surface, such as a floating log or leaf hammock.
• Soft plants — live or silk — for cover and exploration.
• A smooth cave or tunnel large enough to swim through easily.
• Open space to swim and flare.
• Gentle filter flow, with plants or decorations used to break the current if needed.

Decorations to choose

Look for betta leaf hammocks, floating betta logs and silk plants. Live plants such as anubias, java fern, Amazon swords and floating plants suit bettas well and help water quality.

Decorations to avoid

• Hard plastic plants with sharp edges.
• Ornaments with narrow holes where fins can catch.
• Rough rocks and textured resin close to the surface.
• Anything not made for aquarium use.

The “tights test” works well: drag a pair of nylon tights over a decoration; if it snags, it can tear a betta's fins.

Tank size and layout

Many experienced keepers recommend at least a 5-gallon heated, filtered tank for a single betta. Place a hammock or log near the surface at one end, plants at the back and sides, a cave in the middle and keep the front open. Leave the water surface partly open so the betta can reach air — bettas breathe atmospheric air using their labyrinth organ.