Betta Flaring

[Kurt Brutting]

What are the benefits of flaring your Betta ? How often and for how long should you do it? I’ve read a few articles and there is a lot of back and forth on the subject. Any insight is appreciated.

[Flumpweesel]

Engagement and exercise. Once a day or so is fine. 

The fish won't get stressed as it always wins the confrontation (if you use a floating mirror don't forget to remove it). Just be aware that all that winning is just going to grow those fishy egos

[AquaHobbyist123]

Same, I heard to exercise them once per day to keep them healthy and active.

[Flumpweesel]

My female flares at me if she hasn't seen me for a day two. I get shouted out for going on holiday. 

[Kurt Brutting]

I joke around with my son that our betta is going to jump out of the water and karate chop us! 
Thank you for the advise! 

[Matilyn]

I've heard that setting a mirror in front of them for long periods of time stresses them out. For this reason, I rarely show my betta his own reflection. And he remains healthy! 

[Hally M.]

It's extremely beneficial for short periods of time in my opinion just becuase it encourages exercise and mental stimulation. It helps them get their brain moving or get's them to not get bored. I would only recommend 2-3 minutes once or twice a day, maybe three if you have an energetic betta. 

 

Something you could try is using a lazer pen with your fish!!! Don't point it in their eyes but my betta goes crazy for it. He loves chasing it around for a few minutes. This is an alternative to the betta mirror if your worried about stressing them out.