Hi everyone!
Recently I went over to my friends house and noticed that her betta fish was in a 0.7-1.0 gallon tank. I asked her if she wanted it anymore and she said no. Her parents also refused to get her a larger tank. After a long chat, we decided that I would take the fish.
I currently have a 30 gallon tank that I used for my goldfish, lemon,( RIP). It is empty at the moment. I will most likely use this tank for my new fish. I'm wondering if I should use this one or the a five gallon tank( I have one in my basement). I'm aware that 5 gallons is the bare minimum. I'm taking this fish in about 2 weeks because I need to cycle my tank first.
Please let me know of any common mistakes that happen with owning a betta fish. I will also do my own research. I also don't have the power to buy items because I'm a minor but I will ask my parents who will most likely say yes to any necessary items.
I would also really like name recommendations. (Sorry for using the word "also" so much).Thank you all for your help!
https://i.redd.it/0pgpmlozxdhg1.png
Posted by grunty_gal
3 Comments
The 5 gal is fine and you dont need to cycle if you just use the water and filter media from the tank the fish is already in.
definetely get a heater, filter, and LIVE plants! id suggest putting the heater on 26-27 so on the *slightly* warmer side, dont go past 29! if you have juices in a filter sponge from your previous tank (if it cycled – and if it had no diseases) then id suggest squeezing the sponge into the water to hopefully kickstart the cycle. unfortunately i doubt it will be fully cycled in 2 weeks, it can take up to 4 months. that fish needs better care though, id suggest trying to start your tank asap and look for safe ways to kickstart the process. buy stress coat (makes tap water safe and is a NEED) thats the most important helpful chemical, if possible a testing kit too for PH, immonia etc… a temperature stick isnt a NEED but just make sure to check the temp on the heater.
in the meantime, do research on how to start a safe tank, and hopefully ways to speed up the cycling process. get a decent light (id suggest 6+ watts, so that you dont need to keep re-buying plants) but the live plants are VERY important! you can probably wait to get driftwood and decoration, because of your situation. Id suggest the basics; filter, heater, live plants, and a betta bed.
thank you for wanting to help this baby! im wishing you the absoloute best
This betta is so lucky to have you. You care about its wellbeing and that is the secret to success. Great job!