setting up my first betta tank today!

[thelaserluke]

I just have a real quick question. Do you use gravel, sand, or those decorative marbles? Oh also I just filled up the tank with tap water, what do I need to buy to put in the water to make it safe for a betta?

[megaredize]

you can use what you like best. sand can be a bit messy, ive used it in the past and probably wont ever go back to it. i like gravel, it is the easiest to clean using the gravel vacs/siphon

[puppyrjjkm]

I use gravel, which is easiest for a first tank. You can fill up the tank with tap water but make sure to add water conditioner. I use Aquasafe, but API water conditioner is also a good brand.

[thelaserluke]

Thank you guys. I think I'm going to go with gravel but does matter what color?

[LebronTheBetta]

No it doesn't. :) Just make sure that the substrate is aquarium-safe.

[thelaserluke]

Originally Posted by LebronTheBetta

No it doesn't. :) Just make sure that the substrate is aquarium-safe.

okay do i need to buy testing strips for my water??

[LebronTheBetta]

That's optional but liquid test kits are better. The strips are inaccurate. >.<

[thelaserluke]

Should I feed him/her Pellets or flakes?

[LebronTheBetta]

Pellets are better. Flakes can cause slight bloating but it's possible to feed them with it. The brand I use is New Life Spectrum. Some other good brands are Atison's Betta Pro and Omega One. Don't get Betta food from Hikari. They changed the ingredients and now it's bad.

[thelaserluke]

Originally Posted by LebronTheBetta

Pellets are better. Flakes can cause slight bloating but it's possible to feed them with it. The brand I use is New Life Spectrum. Some other good brands are Atison's Betta Pro and Omega One. Don't get Betta food from Hikari. They changed the ingredients and now it's bad.

Okay! As for plants, should I get real or fake??