How to handle Betta fish safely

The sub forum dedicated to one of the most incredible fish in our hobby. Betta ask your questions in here!
floraborn
Posts: 7
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 7:02 pm

How to handle Betta fish safely

Post by floraborn »

I've been keeping bettas for years, but I'm always nervous when handling them during tank cleanings. What's the safest way to move them without stressing them out too much? I use a small net, but I've heard some folks say cups are better.
riverbank4
Posts: 2
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 8:02 pm

Re: How to handle Betta fish safely

Post by riverbank4 »

Nets can damage their delicate fins, especially if they're long-finned. I always use a clean plastic cup to scoop them up gently. Make sure the water in the cup matches the tank temp to avoid shock.
waves_4
Posts: 6
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 8:12 pm

Re: How to handle Betta fish safely

Post by waves_4 »

Agreed with riverbank4. I also dim the lights before moving mine. Bright light can stress them more during the process. And keep the cup close to the water surface so they don't have to jump far.
bronco9
Posts: 6
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 7:21 pm

Re: How to handle Betta fish safely

Post by bronco9 »

Yep, cups are the way to go. Nets are sketchy, man. I've seen too many fins get torn. Plus, if your fish is a jumper, a cup gives 'em less room to freak out.
landonix
Posts: 4
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 4:05 pm

Re: How to handle Betta fish safely

Post by landonix »

bronco9 wrote: Mon Jun 30, 2025 4:08 pm Yep, cups are the way to go. Nets are sketchy, man. I've seen too many fins get torn. Plus, if your fish is a jumper, a cup gives 'em less room to freak out.
Exactly this. I also add a bit of stress coat to the cup water. Helps them stay calm.
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Vagoda
Posts: 8
Joined: Thu Mar 14, 2024 11:38 am

Re: How to handle Betta fish safely

Post by Vagoda »

If you're doing a full tank clean, try to keep them in a separate container with some of their original tank water. Sudden changes in water params can be rough, even if the temp matches.
floraborn
Posts: 7
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 7:02 pm

Re: How to handle Betta fish safely

Post by floraborn »

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll switch to a cup and try the stress coat idea. Never thought about dimming the lights either—good call.
Fuegoz
Posts: 19
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 3:42 pm

Re: How to handle Betta fish safely

Post by Fuegoz »

For real, nets are a no-go. My dude got his fins shredded once, never again. Cup life all the way. Also, move slow, no sudden motions.
petal9
Posts: 13
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 7:22 pm

Re: How to handle Betta fish safely

Post by petal9 »

I've heard some peeps use a turkey baster for tiny tanks. Weird, but it works if you're careful. Just don't squeeze too hard, lol.
Aquilo23
Posts: 4
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 3:19 pm

Re: How to handle Betta fish safely

Post by Aquilo23 »

How often do you all handle yours? I try to keep it to once a month max during deep cleans.
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