Some people collect stamps, some join bowling leagues for recreation. Some, like Liz Day of Hinsdale, breed Siamese fighting fish. Day and her cohorts at the Northern Illinois Betta Association (NIBA) ...

Bettas have become one of the most popular fish for first-time fish owners to purchase. Much of this has to do with the beautiful colors the fish come in and the perceived simplicity of their care.

Kate Lacey is obsessed with Betta splendens, tiny, fierce and flamboyantly colored and finned tropical fish she owns and breeds in her San Francisco apartment, where this interview took place. Where ...