Some betta questions...

[adpierin11]

I have had a 30 gallon tall sitting around and decided to put two female bettas in it. They are super tiny, both about an inch. I have no filter and do not plan on putting one in the tank, because I think it will be too much for them. I have an air pump in the tank and I think it produces to much current at the top sloshing the poor things around oh and of course i have a heater.
My question is since they are the only two in the tank and with no filter how often should I change the water? Will the bacteria ever grow or will I be changing the water too much for it to grow? And for the air pump if I buy an airstone and connect it to the pump will it produce less current?

[Lupin]

Get a sponge filter. It is not too much for your bettas. As for your airpump, are you sure this is not a powerhead? Powerheads create currents, not the airpumps. If the airpump is to strong, get one designed for nano tanks and connect with a sponge for a filter. Bacteria colonize the substrate and sponge. A weekly water change by 40% is sufficient enough.

On the other hand, you could try your hand on some nerite snails such as Neritina natalensis. They are very docile creatures prefering algae over anything else. You could still supplement them with snail jello which your bettas will also eat or algae wafers. Apple snails are best avoided as their antennae and eyes will be a nipping temptation for bettas.

[aunt kymmie]

I also think I read somewhere on the forum about four females vs. two females being more suited as tankmates than just two? Someone else will have to confirm...

[dramaqueen]

I have heard that you should have at least 4 females to spread out the aggression.

[adpierin11]

Originally Posted by dramaqueen

I have heard that you should have at least 4 females to spread out the aggression.

Well that's good b/c I just added two more yesterday. I thought my cichlids were bad, not compared to these guys, but they seem alright so far. Watching them closely to make sure aggression is at a low level.

[dramaqueen]

Yeah, just keep an eye on them and separate them if it gets really bad. They will establish a pecking order.