The Theory
Some petstore staff (and sites that are selling betta vases) will tell you that a betta can survive just fine in a small flower vase topped with a peace lilly. They also might tell you that there's no need to feed the betta because it will feed on the roots of the peace lilly. This makes buying a betta and a peace lilly more appealing. ("Wow, I don't have to feed it and it barely costs to house it? I'll buy it!") There are many problems with this theory and instead of me just telling you it's wrong, I'll tell you the actual facts.
The Problem
The first problem: The Vase Theory.
Okay, so it's true: Bettas can survive in smaller spaces than most other fish can, because they are labryinth fish. They can even survive in tiny cups of water, which is what they usually come in when you buy them at the pet store. But I know for a fact that if you release a betta into a large tank they are way more happier than living in a teeny tiny cup! Would you stick your dog or cat in a closet for its whole life? Bettas can survive in a vase, but why would you want them to?
Second problem: The Peace Lilly Theory
Peace lillies are beautiful plants that look very nice and contemporary in a vase with a pretty betta. But sticking a betta in a vase with just a peace lilly is murder. First of all, bettas are carnivores and cannot survive on the roots of a plant. When they do eat them it is because they are starving and most don't even try to eat them. The second issue is, bettas need to breath!! All fish in a bowl need oxygen from the surface in their water. When you stick a plant on top they can't get their oxygen because the plant is in the way!
So I've presented all the facts and hopefully it has changed your mind about the 'craze' that is sweeping the nation. Sure they look pretty, sure they look contemporary and nice, but so does a fish tank. And you can put many Female bettas in a tank. And your bettas will be much happier.
Also Remember: Goldfish are NOT meant for a bowl and shouldn't be kept in any environment smaller than 5 gallons. They should also only be kept in tanks with a filter, and the whole tank set up for various reasons. I might create a page about this in the future, but for now just remember, DON'T do it!
