I love fish, but one of the last things I want to be receiving from someone as a gift would be a fish, or any animal for that matter. Many people wouldn't even consider this as a gift, but believe me, some do.
Betta's are probably one of the most victimized from gift-giving. They're cheap, accesible, and "Easy to care for." I put that in quotes because it's a pretty relative thing to say. Yes, a betta can get by in a tiny bowl with water only, but that is not the ideal life for them. Bettas who live successfully long lives usually have tanks weighing in at over a gallon, a heater, some level of stimulation, a good diet, and frequent water changes.
That's a lot to give a fish you received as a gift. Going out and buying the perfect betta home (sans betta) can easily cost you around $50-90, thanks Uncle Ted...
Aside from bettas, most fish-givers out there don't know what will get along in your tank if you have one. There are some people who truely think they can go out and buy a little goldfish to put in they're relative's tank. Just know that when you buy a fish for someone else, the chance that it will actually do well or get along with the fish they already have is slim to nothing. There are a thousand reasons that certain fish do not get along, trust me.
So if you're thinking of giving a fish for a gift, ask first what the recipient would like, or even if they would like one at all! Truthfully if someone handed me a betta and said "Merry Christmas!" I would feel a bit disgusted inside; another mouth to feed, thanks! =/
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