Today is the launch and first iteration of the Owner Spotlight on The Betta Blog. Owner spotlights will feature betta fish owners who want to share pictures and stories about them and their fish. Please join me in welcoming Jeanine (@harufrappe) to the blog as she shares her story of her male betta Sousuke!
Why did you decide to purchase a betta fish and is this your first one?
I honestly got my new baby from a friend of mine for my birthday. I’ve always loved bettas and have wanted one for a long time. When I was younger, about 17, I had 4 bettas. So, I’m not really new to owning one, I just haven’t had one in a long time.
What’s your betta’s name, and is there a story behind it?
My baby right now is named Sousuke, after a character from a show that loves to swim.
Name some things you’ve learned about betta’s that you didn’t know before owning one.
Since I haven’t had a betta for a long time, I forgot that bettas were actually warm water tropical fish. Getting a heater was necessary since I liked my apartment to be cool in the summer and also wanted to keep my baby healthy.
Every owner has a favorite part about their fish, what’s yours?
Not only is Sousuke beautiful but he’s also calming. I love the way he swims and also the way he relaxes on his little leaves. He has pretty fins and he’s aqua green all around. I think what makes him stand out the most is his two upper fins that are bright red – just gorgeous!
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone looking to be a betta mom or dad?
Just like any pet, you have to be dedicated to having one. Making sure their tank is cleaned and they have at least been fed once a day. Also, making sure the temperature is just right for them to be happy. Lastly, they also love resting on plants so I suggest getting a nice plant that they can relax on. There are some that are actually called betta hammocks.
What is your least favorite part about betta ownership? Is it tank cleaning?
The tank I have makes cleaning very awkward and hard to manage right now. I’m looking into getting a better tank for him to fix this. I want something that’s not too big, but something where I wouldn’t have to bend my arms a certain way just to get him out while I clean out all the gunk!
Is there a specific product(s) that you’d recommend to others?
I’m super happy with this heater I got for my baby, the Aquaeon 10w Mini Heater. It works perfectly in small tanks and keeps the water at a great temperature for your betta. Water temperature is an important part to keeping them healthy.
A special thank you again to Jeanine for sharing her story. Leave a comment below if you have any questions or just want to say hi to Sousuke! And, if you want to be featured in an upcoming owner spotlight, don’t be shy, use the contact page or send a direct message on Facebook or Twitter.
My betta is having fun thanks to you guys!
That’s wonderful to hear Bayleigh!