I had a Betta throughout most of college. Stacks was an awesome fish, and after 3 1/2 years of being awesome, he passed. I was actually pretty bummed about it, even though he was a fish, he had a lot of personality.
In any event, I've decided to set up a new environment for a new Betta, and would appreciate everyone's guidance and opinion.
I think 3 gallon is sufficient, and I have read that the filter is slower than that of the Eclipse system and therefore does not cause as strong of a current, which is disruptive for Bettas ( stacks hated it when I oxygenated his tank ) my estimate is that a filter helps with keeping the water clean ( stacks really loved it when he got his tank bank, shiny clean, and with the water treated ) and is thus beneficial for the fish, and the owner.
Also through reading I understand this tank to have better access for a heater.
Any help on whether or not this is a good setup, whether my understanding of things is correct, and product recommendations would be greatly appreciated. I plan on updating this thread if it gets enough responses with both the parts that I purchase and the finished product.
I have an older version of that tank and love it....I only do NPT so I don't use any filtration in it......not sure about the filter or if it is too strong for a Betta or not...but I am sure someone will be along soon to give an opinion...lol....
In a 3gal filtered tank-water changes of twice weekly 50%...1-50% water only and 1-50% to include substrate cleaning by vacuum or stir and dip method should maintain water quality
Due to the size-it will establish the nitrogen cycle, however, due to lack of surface area the beneficial bacteria are limited....but twice weekly water changes will take care of water quality issue.
Filter media needs a swish/rinse in old tank water with a water change a couple of times a month to maintain good water flow.
Heater-I use all kinds of different brands and really can't say one is better than the other...lol......the goal it to maintain a stable water temp in the 76-80F range
A good thermometer is needed-for both monitoring the tank water temp and for water changes...its important to keep the water temp within a couple of degrees between new and old water with water changes...
If on city water supply a good dechlorinated to cover chlorine, chloramine and heavy metals with any water added to the fish....
Remember to properly acclimate the Betta to both water temp and water chemistry by adding small amount of tank water to the fish over a period of time and never add any of the pet shop water to the tank......
Look forward to seeing pic and hearing more about your new wet-pet......
But in terms of the functionality I have described I was wondering if anyone had a preferred brand, as I'd like the thermometer to work independently, and I'd like to not have two devices as that seems a bit redundant.
After reading a ton of reviews, I went with a Hydor Theo for my tank. It's adjustable, a big plus in my eyes, and completely submersible. I then purchased a thermometer....a sticker for the outside of the tank. Pretty inconspicous, really, and I am happier knowing at a glance if the tank's in the right zone.
No extra device, just a sticker that can go anywhere!
After reading a ton of reviews, I went with a Hydor Theo for my tank. It's adjustable, a big plus in my eyes, and completely submersible. I then purchased a thermometer....a sticker for the outside of the tank. Pretty inconspicous, really, and I am happier knowing at a glance if the tank's in the right zone.
No extra device, just a sticker that can go anywhere!
Hello.
Sorry if I am misunderstanding this. The sticker is a thermometer? Thanks for the reply.
Last edited by Stacks2; 06-25-2011 at 08:44 PM.
Reason: Enclosure is not spelled properly.
Stick-on thermometers stick on the outside of the tank. It lights up next to the number your tanks temperature is at. (Now if these are 100% accurate there has been debate.)
If your filter is giving off a harsh current in the tank you could always put something where it sucks up or get a sponge filter. I have issues with filters in small tanks as well. (If this is what you were asking.)
I like the feature of the heater having both a thermometer and being self regulating. I think this is convenient and most stable. If anyone does know anything about the products, please let me know.
Also assuming one of those is a good brand I need, aquarium snail, some type of gravel at the bottom so that stacks can make a good home, a plant ( I do not know which is preferred real or fake ) and of course a fish
Please let me know if I am forgetting anything. Thanks so far!
Check out the eBook Betta Fish Care Made Easy
Similar Threads
