By Lori Flint Betta fish are among the most popular freshwater pets sold in the United States, commonly found at major retailers like Petco and PetSmart. While they are often marketed as easy, low-maintenance pets, their journey to store shelves involves a complex global supply chain. Understanding where pet store bettas come from reveals a system driven by mass production, international trade, and efficiency. Betta Fish Origins: Thailand’s Role in Global Supply The majority of betta fish...

By Stacie Grannum, DVM Prepare…Prepare…Prepare… I can't emphasize this enough: preparation is key! Read extensively about Betta fish, including their natural history and natural habitat. It's not as simple as buying a fishbowl and filling it with tap water; all fish deserve better than that. Bettas are tropical fish that thrive in warmer waters and can breathe air from the surface. Remember, a fish's health is directly related to the quality of its water, so maintaining excellent water...

Each month we’ll share what we’re working on to improve betta fish welfare, from public education to pushing for better retail care standards. Betta Advocate Community We’re creating a more collaborative advocacy space – a way for people to feel more involved while expanding our educational content on betta fish care and welfare. This will include guest speakers, interviews, panels, and live Q&As. If you have relevant experience, a topic you’d like to speak on, or are interested in hosting...