Complete Water Changes?

[Scienceluvr8]

Considering the size of my tank, a 1.5 gallon, is it really okay to administer 100% water changes? I've been reading about how doing this can really stress out the betta and gets rid of the beneficial bacteria. Is this necessary for bettas?

My tank is filtered though, and I have a live plant??? I plan on doing his water change this weekend, so I would like to know, thanks

[dramaqueen]

I think you only have to worry about beneficial bacteria if its a cycled tank. A 1.5 gallon is too small to cycle so you need to be doing 100% water changes.

[Luchi]

He'll seem stressed out for a little bit, but he will definitely appreciate a clean tank if it's that size. Once it becomes a routine he shouldn't be so shocked by the changes. Just takes a little getting used to.

[dramaqueen]

I agree.

[TianTian]

Yeah, Tian-Tian used to be in a 1.5 gal. Now he's in a 2.5 but I still do 100% changes bi-weekly. And your Betta will get used to these cleanings. :) Just establish a routine and all should be well.

[Scienceluvr8]

Alright, thanks, I was planning on doing that, but I had been reading a lot of contradictory things, it's best after all considering his tank size...hopefully I can upgrade soon =)