a new betta owner

[MiszAprilCarlene]

I just got my very 1st fish and it's a betta fish. he lives in a 4.5 inch tank, I took out the gravel, because it's kind of hard to clean. I use room temp. bottled water.I don't know much about fish so I wanted to know... if I should get a bigger tank? do I need to feed him vitamins? um, does he really want to mate if there is alot of bubbles at the top of his tank? and is there any thing I should have/do... thats about it for now. thanks

[MegK]

he needs a much bigger tank, bettas can be depressing when they have no room to move, considering they grow 3 inches long.

he needs a heater and a filter

i dont see how the gravel is too hard to clean.. but than again i just might be used to it myself

i would say 1+ gallon but 5+ would be better if u want him active

you should NOT NOT NOT get him a tankmate, breeding bettas is hard work and u shouldnt get him a female cuz he will just kill her.

oh and vitamins are not necessary, just give him a varied diet.

i think i answered everything?

[Lupin]

Well said, Meg. You answered everything needed by our new fellow member.:)

Welcome to Fishforum.com, Carlene.

[JouteiMike]

Yes, I agree with the previous post. You really should get a bigger tank, a 5-10 gallon, or even 20. This also means you will need to buy a filter, heater, water dechlorinator, and substrate, decorations, and air-stone... the last 3 aren't necessary, but the fish will only benefit from them. Substrate and decorations makes the fish feel more comfortable, and allows places to hide, and air-stones provide water movement to the surface which increase oxygen levels.

I'd also pick up a liquid test kid, for ammonia, nitrIte, and nitrAte. It's up to you if you want to spend the extra money...this will let you know how well your water quality is.