A Betta fish is hard to forget. I have seen so many types of fish in my life and yet I don't remember the names of their species. With Betta fish it is different. Their looks are simply stunning. They are probably one of the most attractive fish around. It is not surprising that they have become so incredibly popular.

If you decided you would want to keep Betta fish, it's time to learn something about Betta fish care. It's not rocket science, but there are some basic principles which can make a huge difference in your success as a Betta fish owner!

These Betta fish care basics should cover the most important points, but you would be well advised to try to learn more. Get a book on Betta fish care. There are so many wonderful sources of excellent information on the subject.

1. First and foremost, their "home" needs to be large enough for them to swim in comfortably. Also, a tank that is lower is better, because your betta fish will want to be close enough to the water surface to get oxygen. Tall tanks make it harder for Bettas to reach the surface. Since Betta fish needs oxygen intake from the air, make it easy for him. Learn more about Betta fish tanks here.

2. Gravel in your betta fish tank plays an important role. It's not there just for decoration, although that is also an important aspect. It will help beneficial bacteria grow and break down the waste in the tank. It will also contribute to the well-being of your Betta. Your new finned friend needs privacy and likes to hide once in a while.

3. It's easy and tempting to overfeed your Betta. But proper Betta fish care rules dictate that you shouldn't leave any uneaten food in the tank. Use a turkey baster to remove any particles still floating within minutes of the feeding time The more food, the more waste products will come from the Betta.

4. Do not use soap or chemicals when cleaning the tank or any of the decorations. Don't let your hands to come in contact with the aquarium water or the Betta, either, if you washed them with soap. Even trace amounts of soap can be poisonous.

5. Avoid plastic plants in the aquarium. They tend to be hard for your Betta's fins. They are also made of toxic materials which would eventually leach into the water.

6. Keep the tank water as clean as you can. Clean water is the most fundamental principle of proper Betta fish care. It will help you avoid many problems, especially diseases, which could make your new hobby more of a nuissance than a source of joy.  Stock on the supplies and use the well-proven water conditioners for your tank.

7. Don't fall prey to the belief that your Betta fish is lonely. Many people believe that Bettas need company of other fish, but it's probably their own projections. Bettas are solitary species and they find many other fish annoying, stressful to be around and even dangerous. If you are not careful, your tank will become a battleground and the stressed out fish are very susceptible to diseases - another major principle of proper Betta fish care.

Make sure that you are following all the rules of proper Betta fish care and chances are you will end up with a thriving and happy fish, even if kept completely alone.

8. Keep the pH level at 7.0. If it's much higher or lower, change it very, very gradually. Fluctuations are even more harmful to your Betta fish than the wrong pH level. Consistency of your Betta fish water temperature and pH levels is another of those basic principles of Betta fish care.

9. Cover your Betta tank. Bettas like to jump. Also, make sure that the cover has holes for ventilation. A mesh screen is often the best solution.

10. Your Betta likes meat! Feed it live foods, such as brine shrimp. Frozen bloodworms are also a good choice for your Betta. Most Bettas will like the Betta pellets sold at most pet stores. Once in a while you should offer some live food, though!

Master these simple principles, observe your Betta frequently and you will soon become an expert in Betta fish care!