Before you buy beta (often spelled – Betta) fish, you should get their tank set up. Some aquarists new to the hobby buy beta fish from a pet store and leave them in the tiny beta fish bowls they are housed in. While your beta can survive in a small amount of water with little to no water circulation, they certainly will not thrive there. You probably chose betas because of their amazing colors and fin plumage. If you want your fish to thrive and be the happiest, healthiest beta he can be, you will need to upgrade to a larger beta house when you buy beta supplies.
I buy beta tanks no smaller than five gallons, and prefer ten gallon tanks, because they make breeding, and adding beta tankmates and beta plants much easier. With a larger tank, you will also be providing your fish with many more chances to show off their individual personality.
beta fish prefer shallow depths, so when choosing a tank for your beta, buy something lower and wider instead of deep. Not only will this make your water changes and maintenance easier, but it will also give your beta an environment most like his natural habitat.
Your beta has to eat. So, when you buy beta fish food, make sure that the food size is appropriate for your fish. I prefer flakes at first if the beta is small, and then pellets at later stages of his growth. There are a lot of options out there, but I prefer a standard beta flake food product. You can also use freeze-dried brine.
You of course will need to buy beta supplies like a net, lid for the beta tank, heater and filter. Buy a sponge filter, because good bacteria will grow in the filter collection area, and will provide the nitrates your fish needs to fight off diseases. When purchasing a heater, three to five watts per gallon will be sufficient. Hood selection and accessories like nets are not as important. Get what works for you.
Buy your beta an aquarium test kit, and cyle his tank before you add him. There are many good beta care guides that walk you through the water cycling process. This is the most important step in your fish's young life! Follow the directions, and add fish. Be forewarned, cycling aquarium water takes two to eight weeks, so you will have to be prepared to wait. But, when cycled properly, your beta tank will have pristine water quality, and your fish can live up to five years.
"Want to know all about Cycling Aquarium Water and total beta set-up and care? I have enjoyed raising healthy, happy betas for over 20 years. Head to http://www.betaFacts.info and subscribe to my blog for a FREE beta mini-course ($9.95 value) for a limited time!"
Elizabeth Christopher
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