Getting a Betta Fish very soon, want suggestions :)

[zaylia]

I have read a mix of things online, and came across this forum. I have a hard time exploring this site though. So, I figured I would start a thread.

Anyways, am hoping for some of you to tell me what living environment my future Betta will need. And what I should do to take care of him or her.

Also wondering, can two live in one space?

Thank you for your time! :)

[ZackyBear]

2 bettas can't share a space unless the tank is 20 gallons plus and is stuffed with plants and hiding places to the rim~ (Even then they might fight each other D: )

If you can get a heater, water conditioner, a good tank and a thermometer, along with a good healthy type of pellet your betta will be happy. Make sure that if you get anything less than 5 gallons that you change the water every 2-3 days to keep ammonia levels down.

Hope this helps. Post pictures for us when you find the lucky guy! :3

[sarahspins]

I would also add that if you go with anything over 5 gallons, you should definitely plan on cycling the tank and adding a test kit to your shopping list would be a very wise move - I think they're handy to have so you can watch your ammonia levels and you'll be able to check if your water changes are adequate, but if you cycle your tank you really need to keep tabs on your ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates until the process is complete, and then check every once in a while to make sure everything is stable and your nitrates aren't getting too high.

[zaylia]

Thanks man!

[zaylia]

This is complicated for one little fish! Wow!

So, a "kit" from Petsmart wouldn't be good then, right?

[ZackyBear]

It really depends on what type of kit. Anything smaller than 1 gallon should be avoided, in my opinion.

If you're looking at kits, make sure that you get one that has a filter that won't blow your betta around, and that it has a lid (since bettas are escape artists).

I've tried a few kits from Petsmart. If you post/PM me which ones you're looking at I should be able to tell you for sure if the filter would be alright :3

[LadyVictorian]

Yeah it's complicated and pretty expensive but once you get everything down it becomes like second nature and to be honest cycling a tank is kind of fun. It's like chemistry class.

I would read up a bit on betta's before getting one which you seem to be doing just in case it ends up not being the right fish for you. Normally if you want a fish you can keep in a community or together betta shouldn't be your first choice. If you want a solitary tropical fish that's beautiful and despite all it's complex needs and requirements then it's a good fish choice. Also stuff like frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp make great treats for betta. I am in the process of starting my own little brine shrimp farm once I get my tiny critter keeper, a VERY low powered filter, some live plants, and substrate to breed them with. Can hardly wait.

[zaylia]

These two seem to pop out and be in my price range,

http://www.petsmart.com/product/inde...4-1AF7D051C539

http://www.petsmart.com/product/inde...4-1AF7D051C539

That last one looks like this one,

http://www.petsmart.com/product/inde...4-1AF7D051C539

It is pretty confusing. Maybe I should just go into the store first.

[zaylia]

Lady Victorian. That sounds amazing! Shrimp farm, so neat!

I am browsing lots of little creatures. My allergies to my cat have become deadly, and so if plans go through, will be in new arms tonight :(

I havn't lived without a pet ever, so I am open to one Betta. I am also considering a frog.

[zaylia]

I just wish they still had fire bellied newts!