Too Small

[kanadka]

I've been reading mixed thoughts on the minimum size of a bowl for bettas. I purchased my first one yesterday and now I'm worried that Dexter's home is too small. I think it's a little over a gallon. Should I get something bigger?

[Noko]

You should probably get something a bit bigger. Anything 2.5 gallons and up should be okay. If you are running low on money, you could always buy a big plastic storage container from Target, Walmart, etc... Kriter Keepers are good too, as long as you get a big one. He will need a heater if you don't already have one. His water should be around 80 degrees (I have heard 76-82)

BTW your kitchen (I am guessing that is what it is due to the fridge and microwave) is the same layout as my aunts. She would name her fish Dexter too cause of the show she watches XD

[veganchick]

I think thats the 1.5g betta cube. 2.5g+ is reccomended and best for bettas health, but if you get a heater and keep up wwith water changes 1.5g can be ok temporarily. Just a word of advice-cover the top of the tank up.. bettas will jump out!

[1fish2fish]

That will be fine for now.. but you need to do water changes every day.. out of those at least 2 a week should be 100%. I recommend doing a 100% change everyother day with a 50% change on the off day.

I agree with VC you need to find a way to cover the top.. while still letting air in.

[Noko]

You can use a sheet of paper as a cover. I would only use paper as a temporary cover because it can look a little weird. I usually cut small holes in the paper just to allow a decent amount of air in. I did this for the vase I have my little girl in (temporary until the tank is ready) and it works fine.

[kanadka]

Thanks everyone. I'm going back to Petco to get a 2.5 gallon or 5 gallon tank. They are all 20% off!

[dramaqueen]

20%off! Good deal!

[BettaxFishxCrazy]

Wow, that's a great deal! Good luck and take pictures when you have everything set up. :)

[veganchick]

can't wait to see it!

[kelly528]

Great! I think you will find a larger tank a lot more user-friendly. However that tank (it's 1.25g) would make an awesome little project in the future... you could keep about 5 cherry shrimp in there along with some plants & a fluorescent desk lamp for lighting.