Confused (Water Changes/Cycles)

[Frack]

I've read a lot of of threads about water changes and water cycles. I've read that anything 2+ gallons needs to be fully cycled for a month vs can't be cycled at all. That Water changes need to be every other day for 2 gallons vs 25/50/100 once a week.

So I guess I just need to show you what I have and see what you suggest.

I have a Top Fin 3.5 gallon tank (http://www.petsmart.com/product/inde...uctId=11051817) It has the filter it came with, baffled with sponges (Both around downstream flow and inside filter so fish can't jump in). I only have 1 Betta and no live plants.

I just got it set up last night and when I get paid this weekend I will get a water testing kit and gravel vaccuum.

I was told that it shouldn't be cycled as anything under 5 gallons is hard to do. So how often should I be doing water changes? Should I be doing 100% once a week?

Thanks!

[Oldfishlady]

Its not that smaller filtered tanks can't cycle or shouldn't be cycled....its more due to limited surface area for the nitrifying bacteria to colonize that makes the nitrogen cycle unstable...this only means that water change needs are not changed irregardless of nitrogen cycle stage.......

In a 3.5gal filtered tank without live plants-water changes of 50% twice a week....1-50% water only and 1-50% to include the substrate by vacuum or stir and dip method.....

Filter media needs a rinse/swish in old tank water with a water change a couple of times a month to maintain good water flow....

You can safely add the Betta to the tank once setup and it comes to temp.....starting on day 3/4 make the first 50% water only and schedule water changes from that point....
The nitrogen cycle will establish and the Betta will be safe.....provided that you make the twice weekly water changes, don't overfeed and remove uneaten food within a reasonable time.......

Look forward to some pics......