Amount of Cover Recommended?

[daleekee]

I've read elsewhere that bettas prefer to have between 50 and 75% of the tank space covered with plants and decorations. Apparently, an abundance of hiding spaces reduces stress. Is there any truth to this statement?

I've been considering adding an ornate pagoda decoration to the tank,
but I think the openings in the pagoda are just slightly bigger than a typical bettas body. Does anyone think my betta would even venture inside if he had to pass a "just big enough" space like that? I have no idea how picky bettas are about these things.

[amanichen]

Aquascaping will not only help your fish feel more secure, but it'll give it more places to explore so they don't get bored. A bright, empty tank is hardly a natural environment, so filling it with plants and rocks and other things is only beneficial =)