are plants and gravel a complete necessity in a betta tank?

  i just bought a betta fish 2 weeks ago, and it's just in a glass tank at the moment. there is no gravel or decorations because i didn't think it was necessary. but the tank looks pretty empty and i was thinking of buying some decorations.



are live plants and gravel a necessity in a healthy betta's tank?

are live plants good for it?

is it better for the fish to decorate their tank or to just keep them in an empty tank (with water of course lol)



thanks so much !!!!!
YES. Plants help cycle fish tanks and provide important minerals to the water. Also gravel is important because a tank without gravel acts like a mirror which can disorient the fish.





You don't need live plants, in fact taking care of live plants can be a hassle at times, You do however NEED gravel.
Bettas need a filter and heater, and a tank of at least 3 gallons. They appriciate gravel and fake, silk plants or live plants. If I was you, I'd get some black gravel to bring out their colors, and add 2-4 medium sized plants. I also like gravel accents, like a mix of light blue and dark blue stones to make the tank more interessting. Gravel accents come in all colors but are not needed.
They like to have plants to rest on and hide behind to feel safe. Also, they can bring more oxygen into the water and keep it clean. Gravel is good too because it will hold the plants in place, plus trap their poop until you get a chance to clean the tank.
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Plus it looks much nicer!
You want at least one plant in there. They feel too exposed otherwise. Every animal needs a hiding spot. I recommond a live plant or a silk plant. Not plastic because sometimes these will tear there fins . and usually to keep the plant from just floating at the top, you will need gravel to keep it down. unless you are lucky enough to find plant weights. they don't seem to be a popular item sold anymore.
well lets just say they wont die without plants cause i had a betta fish once and i never used plants. but if you want you can add some.
idk about live plants but gravel helps a little by keeping some natural bacteria in the water , but still do water changes every now and then