Do Betta Fish Need Air Pump?

No, betta fish don’t need an air pump to survive. They have a special organ called a labyrinth that lets them breathe air from the surface.

But having an air pump nearby can still be useful in certain situations. Let’s break it down.

Let’s See What Other Betta Owners Think

I asked a popular betta subreddit if an air pump is a must for a betta tank or if just a filter is fine. Here’s the post’s screenshot:

Everyone remarked that an air pump is not a must. I especially liked the fourth comment from user jenbobo7. He gave an excellent tip.

Just make sure the water line is about a quarter inch below the filter outflow. This will essentially create a waterfall effect, breaking the surface of the water and, as a result, increasing oxygenation.

What Does an Air Pump Do?

An air pump pushes air through a tube into the tank. That air travels into an air stone, which breaks it into bubbles.

These bubbles rise to the top and disturb the surface, which helps more oxygen dissolve into the water. That’s the main goal—oxygen.

Why Bettas Don’t Need One

Bettas can breathe air directly from the surface. You’ve probably seen yours gulping air now and then. That’s totally normal.

So, they’re not fully dependent on oxygen in the water like other fish. That’s why an air pump is optional.

When an Air Pump Might Help

There are a few times when an air pump becomes useful:

• If your betta is sick and can’t swim to the surface.
• During medication—some meds lower oxygen levels.
• If the water feels stale or still for too long.

In those cases, an air pump can make life easier for your fish.

Curious about Betta? This post is packed with info you won’t want to miss! The No-Stress Betta Tank Setup Guide (Even Beginners Can Nail It)

Can a Filter Do the Same Job?

Yes. Most good filters (like HOBs or sponge filters) already move the water enough to increase oxygen.

Even something simple—like letting your HOB’s water fall a bit from the outlet—can do the trick. That surface agitation is all you need.

What About Live Plants?

Live plants also boost oxygen levels. During the day, they take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen.

So if you’ve got plants and a decent filter, you’re already covering the oxygen needs.

Air Pump vs Filter: What’s the Difference?

An air pump adds oxygen. That’s all.

A filter does much more. It removes debris, breaks down toxins, and helps keep the water safe.

Filters are essential. Air pumps are optional.

Why Bettas Love and Hate Bubbles

Bettas are curious. Some play with the bubbles from air stones.

But they hate strong water flow. If the bubbles create too much movement, your betta might get stressed.

If you do use an air pump, get one that lets you control the airflow

Final Thoughts

You don’t need an air pump in a betta tank. But it doesn’t hurt to keep one around.

Just don’t create too much flow. Keep things gentle. That’s what bettas like.