White Betta

Betta fish are more than decorations. In the callous pet trade, betta fish (aka “Siamese fighting fish”) are forced to live in tiny cups, small... more

by M Spadecaller

Title

White Betta

Artist

M Spadecaller

Medium

Digital Art - Mixed Media

Description

Betta fish are more than decorations. In the callous pet trade, betta fish (aka “Siamese fighting fish”) are forced to live in tiny cups, small bowls, and even champagne glasses. These sensitive fish suffer terribly in the pet trade, where they’re subjected to inadequate care from the time, they’re born and sold.

Betta fish are native to Asia, where they live in the shallow water of marshes, ponds, or slow-moving streams. According to PetMD, betta fish can recognize their human guardians. They usually swim about excitedly when they see their guardian approaching; that is, of course, if they are being treated properly. Betta fish can experience frustration and depression. While most of them can be content in a tank alone, their aquarium still needs space to explore, underwater structures, caves, and plants. Male bettas are devoted fathers who build bubble nests for their young with their mouths and fiercely protect their babies from predators. Just like humans, they’re active during the day and sleep at night, requiring darkness to get a good night’s rest.

Maintaining a proper aquarium for any fish species is much more complex, expensive, and time-intensive than most people understand. However, by providing the betta with an environment that’s as much like their natural habitat as possible will make their lives easier. Bettas should never be sold like property; they are Living beings with unique needs and wants. Purchasing a betta fish from a pet store or breeder promotes continued abuse and exploitation. Petco continues to sell these animals in small, inadequate containers. No fish should be forced to live and die inside a minuscule bowl. Learn to set up a proper aquarium and adopt a betta from a friend, neighbor, or private fancier. “The Betta Fish,” is a digital painting created by Spadecaller in his Florida studio.

Uploaded

December 11th, 2019