k9soul you're exactly right, and also contrary to popular belief bettas thrive in tanks with plants (its not unsafe). It only becomes "unsafe" when you hav the entire surface of the water covered. Bettas are "surface breathers" and NEED a clean spot on the surface to come up and breathe air with their mouth. SO if you do decide to have plants and stuff in your tank, just make sure theres an open spot on the surface so they can breathe!!

Oh yeah another rumor to kill -- bettas CAN be in a tank with other fish, just not other bettas, and not other aggressive or fin-nipping fish. They can live in harmony with.. goldfish is one example. There are TONS others but I can't possibly name them ALL.