About Us

 

Our Tinted World at Betta Botanicals! Ecosystems Are What We Build!


Betta Albimarginata in a botanical aquarium by Betta Botanicals, for Betta fish, Blackwater aquariums.At Betta Botanicals ® we believe that the benefits of botanicals are not a function of their aesthetics. Their true value lies in their natural properties, seen and unseen, not by how darkly tinted the water is or how low the pH may be. We are dedicated to providing a supportive community for every aquarium and bioactive enthusiast regardless of gravel color, water tint, or detritus levels. Our mission is to empower you with the knowledge, resources, and materials needed to create thriving ecosystems in your home. We've handled the hard part of meticulously sourcing the highest quality botanicals and leaf litter from around the world, subjecting them to rigorous testing before making them available for purchase. We are proud to be your #1 trusted source for botanicals in the aquatic hobby... but lately we've been really excited about dart frogs! So, our Leaf Litter Lifestyle is expanding.

Sustainability Is At Our Forefront

In line with our commitment to environmental sustainability, every product is thoughtfully packaged using 100% home-compostable materials made from renewable sugarcane plant fibers. By choosing Betta Botanicals ®, you improve your creatures' well-being while contributing to the betterment of our planet. As of June 2023, Betta Botanicals operates using solar energy, and we are actively working towards offsetting the carbon emissions from our shipping processes.

Close-up of isopods decomposing Betta Botanicals' eco-friendly, compostable packing tape, showcasing sustainability in action within a natural ecosystem


How Was Betta Botanicals Born?

Hey, my name is Ben, and Betta Botanicals was born from a deep passion for exploring ecosystems as a young kid with my grandfather, and then nurtured since childhood by my family. After a hiatus to attend Western Washington University, my return to the aquarium hobby led me to discover the remarkable benefits of leaf litter in aquatic habitats. Drawing from my academic background in Environmental Science, with a focus on Marine Ecology, Anthropology, and Environmental Education, I worked with esteemed organizations dedicated to wetland conservation and salmon preservation in Whatcom County. Inspired by my experiences and fascination with aquatic ecosystems, Betta Botanicals came to life through a viral TikTok video. My commitment to sustainability extends to every aspect of this business, from compostable packaging (as of 2021) to reliance on solar power (as of 2023). Over the years, I have led with the pillars of community, sustainability, and inclusion while helping you build your ecosystem. This small business is nestled in the beautiful Pacific Northwest in Ferndale, WA and you can find my products in many stores around the country.

That's My Journey, Now It's Your Turn! 


Your ecosystem journey begins now! We offer a curated selection of botanicals and Leaf Litter Lifestyle Merch for you to explore as you build new ecosystems. Visit our aquatic botanical preparation page for step-by-step instructions on maximizing the benefits of these natural materials.

Get ready to build your ecosystem with Betta Botanicals!


Tannin colored text "build your ecosystem" with a manzanita wood branch and leaves at Betta Botanicals.

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