i just got my betta yesterday...

[sidvicious]

Last night when I got sid he was a peacock color.. blue and green.. this morning when I looked at him his fins turned red, but not a faded red, a vibrant red.. I'm hoping he isn't sick. I was wondering if this has happened to anyone else. Also I didn't get him a heater.. the woman and the store said nothing about heating his water.. is it absolutely necessary to have one??

Thank you,
Sasha <3

[Creat]

Sometimes betta change color when they come home from the pet store but pictures would help if you could post them. And having a heater is just good practice because unexpectedly the water can drop to low and its unhealthy for the betta. Some people use them only for certain times of the year because they live somewhere where the temperature is high enough.

[fredythefish]

Hello :) yes! get a heater. how big is his bowl/tank? the color change is most likely from him being happy (you know, clean water, food etc) and his colors enhancing.

[bettafish15]

Yes its neccessary, they get cold and lethargic without a heater, and it takes a large toll on their bodies. They need to be kept at temperatures between 77-84F. When you get your heater, get an aquarium thermometer to moniter the temp :) As for the color change, he may not have shown red before due to stress. Bettas tend to color up when they're out of their tiny cups.

[sidvicious]

Thank you guys so much!! My tank is fairly small.. I'm going to guess about 1 gallon.

[bettafish15]

It's easier to care for and heat a tank when its 2.5 gallons or larger :) Less water changes on the bigger tanks ;D

[sidvicious]

Do you think he will survive till Sunday? That's when I plan on getting the heater.

[scootshoot]

Originally Posted by sidvicious

Do you think he will survive till Sunday? That's when I plan on getting the heater.

Well with one gallon of water you will have to do a 100pct water change every single day. Are you up to this task?

If not, there is high risk your new betta will live a short life due to poor water conditions eventually taking its toll thus getting a heater will be a waste of $$$$...

[bettafish15]

Originally Posted by sidvicious

Do you think he will survive till Sunday? That's when I plan on getting the heater.

You'll have to do 100% water changes daily for him, and keep him in a warm place. The sooner you can get your heater and maybe a larger tank the better. :)

[sidvicious]

Even if I have a filter I have to change the water everyday???