So I was one of those people who bought the little betta bowl that the pet store told me to get and then was horrified when I found out that these were not appropriate, so I came here.
Thanks to everyone's advice, Marley (being a crowntail I thought he looked like he had dredlocks so I named him for Bob Marley) now has a tall 5 gallon tank with a heater, live plants, and sponge filter.
He seems very happy and active and today he blew me some bubbles.
Thanks again!! :D