New Aquarium Set Up

[Indigo13]

I'm setting up my new betta home, and I wanted to double check that I have everything I need.
I have:
-a 2.5 gallon tank
-a small filter (a filter recommended on this website)
-a small undergravel heater
-poland spring water (with water conditioner)
-a "cave" for fishie to hide in
-a little plant
-a small thermometer
-gravel

After doing the research, I think this set up would require a water change twice a week. I'm still a little confused about the pH/water testing. How often should this be done? This set up is for one male betta.
Thanks!

[dramaqueen]

Everything sounds good. You can use tap water. Just make sure it's conditioned first. Changing the water twice a week will be fine. I wouldn't worry about testing the water if you aren't cycling the tank. The only thing I test for is ammonia and none of mine are cycled.

[Indigo13]

What do you mean by "cycling" the tank?

[dramaqueen]

Here is an article on cycling. http://www.tropicalfishkeeping.com/f...ium-cycle-252/