Filters Necessary?

[psychoclarinet]

I've heard this differently on many sites, but I'll rely on your opinion.

My mom and I recently purchased two male bettas; we are keeping them each in 2.5 gallons. I have a bowl and she has a small tank. ( Honestly, I feel bad for not researching this before getting a betta. :/ ) We're running out to Petsmart today; is filtration required?

If so, what filters would you recommend for our tanks? Sorry, I'm such a fish noob haha.

Thanks!!

[dramaqueen]

You only need to have a filter if you are cycling the tanks. Tanks that small don't need to be cycled.

[onekatietwo]

No, I don't think you should get a filter, especially for that size of tank.

You'll just need to do water changes more frequently than if you did have a filter. But I honestly don't think I filter will help you or your bettas out too much, especially in 2.5 gallon tanks.

Do you have a heater, though? That's probably a better investment if you don't. Bettas can survive in cooler water, but they definitely don't do as well and they probably won't survive as long.

Good luck. :)

[dramaqueen]

I agree about the heater.

[veganchick]

no filters needed, but my bettas prefer them, heaters are def. needed tho

[shikatsin]

There are a range of heaters, but I believe there are cheap ones that are $0-30 that can be placed in a 2-10 gallon tank.

[dramaqueen]

I think mine was around $18 for a 25 watt.

[veganchick]

mine were all about $10-$12 for the tanks that were under 5 gallons

[JingleAllTheWay]

You don't need a filter unless you just want too. Personally I think if the tank didn't come with one (as in, if you didn't get a full tank kit) there is no need in that size. They can become a hassle and more expensive because you have to buy replacement filter cartridges.

I don't totally agree with some that filters make your tank go into a cycle. My 1.5 gallon tank has a filter and my fish has been fine.

But, yes, get a heater if the water doesn't normally stay at 78 or above.

[khf]

My small heater for 2.5 tank from Petsmart I got last week was only 12.99 not bad.