Tips for successful betta tank setup and why the Right Habitat is Important

Care of Betta Fish: Choosing the Right Habitat

The Betta's natural habitat is places like rice paddies and slow-moving streams in Asia with shallow water. So, many people who keep fish think that the Betta will do fine in a small bowl. They don't think about the fact that the rice paddies are part of a natural ecosystem. Fresh water brings in nutrients that are needed and gets rid of bacteria. Rice fields are usually about the size of a big pond.

There is no natural ecosystem in a man-made environment, so it is important to plan. Small habitats put the environment at risk of being bad.

Your Betta will be happier in a small tank than in the tiny plastic cup or vase he had at the pet store. But for your Betta to be truly happy, it needs at least 2 gallons of water per fish to not only live, but also grow.

The only thing that limits the size of the tank is the fact that bigger tanks need more cleaning. They are harder to heat up and keep the water clean in. About 10 gallons is the most that can be thought of for each Betta. Bettas are territorial and like to be in charge of their kingdom, so giving them more than 10 gallons of space to live in could stress them out.

How to set up a successful betta tank:

-Giant tanks should be wider than they are deep. Bettas need to be able to get to the top. Help people get there.
-Pick a strong base for your tank. Remember that a gallon of water weighs more than 8 pounds.
-Keep out of direct sunlight and away from air conditioning or heating that makes drafts.
-Put a lid or mesh screen on the tank so that your Betta can't jump out.