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○Tank |
I recommend a 5 gallons for a single adult betta's home tank. There is controversy over this, as some say 2.5 gallons is enough. I find that these fish patrol their territory and often rest in decorations or on plants. I believe 2.5g is not enough space for a well decorated environment. If you are a breeder, and able to maintain many small containers with quality, heated water, then this is a slightly different case.
In any case, if you plan to add more fish, go for at least 10 gallons. |
Glass or acrylic?
This is up to personal preference. Both are adequate.
Acrylic will scratch easily, but it is lighter and can be more suitable for desktops or nightstands. |
Kit or bare tank?
Kits come with filters and a hood light, as well as some other miscellaneous supplies. This is useful if this is your first aquarium. They can be overpriced compared to setting up a tank from scratch, and often
limit what type of filter you can use in the future. Check out a more detailed breakdown here: Budget Shopping List |
*Aqua Culture is Walmart's fish care brand. Their products are usually very affordable, however, I have had one tank spontaneously leak, so I do not recommend these tanks or kits.
*Kits do not always come with the same items. (Ex. Some may come with heaters, others will not.)
*Keep in mind that betta fish prefer to swim horizontally, so a tall tank is less desirable then a long one.
*Kits do not always come with the same items. (Ex. Some may come with heaters, others will not.)
*Keep in mind that betta fish prefer to swim horizontally, so a tall tank is less desirable then a long one.
5 Gallon
10 Gallon
20 Gallon
Aqueon Aquarium Fish Tank Starter Kit
Amazon: $100.28 
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Marineland (Aquaria) Aquarium Kit
Amazon: Price Unavailable Foster & Smith: $97.99 
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Empty Glass Tank
I recommend purchasing an Aqueon brand tank for $20 in a store, during a dollar per gallon sale. They are overpriced online. They come in long or tall varieties. |
Anything over 20 gallons is usually best not purchased as a kit.
I recommend buying an empty glass tank, as well as a dedicated stand, if you want to go over 20 gallons.
20 gallons is a great tank size to start out with if you are new to the hobby, because it allows more room for error.
20 gallons is a great tank size to start out with if you are new to the hobby, because it allows more room for error.
Designer Tanks
These are tank kits which come in random sizes and unique shapes.
They are more expensive then regular tanks and you cannot remove the filter.
They are more expensive then regular tanks and you cannot remove the filter.
○Filter
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A common misconception about filters is that they are meant to keep the tank clean. This is not entirely true. While mechanical filters can suction up floating debris, most debris falls into the substrate and decays. The filter is meant to siphon up water and run it through media with beneficial bacteria, returning cleaner water to the tank. This is called biological filtration and is part of the nitrogen cycle.
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What is the nitrogen cycle?
The nitrogen cycle starts as soon as you introduce a form of ammonia. However, it takes weeks or even months for the beneficial bacteria to cultivate in the substrate and filter media. More information can be found on this page: Setting up a Betta Tank.
*If you google nitrogen cycle you will find diagrams that visually explain it.
*Kits and some designer tanks come with filters. If you are purchasing these, you do not need an additional filter. |
How often should I change the filter media?
Often the various brands recommend anywhere from 2-3 weeks to 4-6 weeks. This is false. You really only need to replace the filter media when it starts to fall apart. The sponges, fabrics, and little porous pebbles used in media cartridges are prime homes for the various beneficial bacteria needed to keep the tank healthy. Simply rinse the filter media in the water removed during water changes, and put it back in its place. If it starts to smell, or is home to unpleasant bacteria or mold, it should be replaced.
Activated Carbon??
Activated carbon is found in some filter media. It is not a necessity for a healthy cycle. It does help to clear discolored water (by removing tannins) and remove odors, but it must be replaced every 3-4 weeks because the carbon looses its effectiveness. It works by attracting certain chemicals to its surface area; this is chemical filtration. Remove the carbon pack when medicating fish in tanks: the activated carbon will remove many medications (chemicals) from the water.
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Sponge Filters
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I recommend using sponge filters for betta fish and fry.
Since bettas have a relatively low bio-load (they don't produce much waste,) and you can adjust the strength; this type of filter is perfect! |
You will need to purchase an air pump if you decide to buy a sponge filter.
You may also need airline tubing, though some sponge filters or air pumps come with accessories. Check valves prevent water from running up the tube in case of a power outage/shortage. |
Purchase a smaller sponge filter for a smaller tank, and a larger one for a larger tank. Tanks over 50 gallons may need 2 sponge filters.
The goal is to have as much surface area for beneficial bacteria as possible, without being too powerful.
The goal is to have as much surface area for beneficial bacteria as possible, without being too powerful.
*You must buy a pump strong enough to support the size of the tank. You can divide airline tubing to split the airflow, but remember to compensate by using a stronger pump.
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*I recommend buying the longest tubing in whatever brand/color you want and cut it to the length you need. You can divide airline tubing with these: Air Control Valve
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"Hang-On Back" (HOB) Filters
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HOB filters come with most kits. Their strength can sometimes be adjusted with a knob. You can even stuff filter floss into the output to weaken the flow. Since bettas prefer slow moving water, this is useful.
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If you are setting up a tank from scratch, it's important to consider what kind of lid or hood you plan on using, since many can be incompatible with certain HOB filters.
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MarineLand Emperor & Penguin Filter Systems
Amazon (Penguin 5-70 gallon): $10.82 - $23.16 Amazon (Emperor 80 gallon): $34.29 Petco - Chewy - Walmart |
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Internal Filters
Internal filters are great for betta tanks, because their flow is generally weaker.
They are compatible with all hoods and lids since they go inside of the tank.
They are compatible with all hoods and lids since they go inside of the tank.
Aqueon Quietflow Internal Power Filter (10-40 gallon)
Amazon: $14.14 - $22.95 Petco: $12.74 - $25.49 |
Marina Internal Filter (25 gallon)
Amazon: $21.74 |
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Other Filters
Canister filters, under gravel filters, and trickle filters are other options for large or specialized tanks and ponds.
Canister filters are recommended for large tanks that need powerful water exchange rates, and thus have a stronger flow, which is not recommended for betta fish.
Under gravel filters are limited to the types of filtration they provide, and require weekly stirring of the substrate to prevent buildup.
Trickle filters and sumps are used for filtering multiple aquariums with one water supply.
Canister filters are recommended for large tanks that need powerful water exchange rates, and thus have a stronger flow, which is not recommended for betta fish.
Under gravel filters are limited to the types of filtration they provide, and require weekly stirring of the substrate to prevent buildup.
Trickle filters and sumps are used for filtering multiple aquariums with one water supply.
○Heater
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Bettas are tropical fish and therefore need warm water. Their preferred temperature ranges from 78°F to 83°F. I personally set most of my tanks to 80°F. The exact temperature matters less then consistent temperature. If the water is rapidly heated or cooled, it can shock the fish. Always add a thermometer to double check the water temperature in case the heater malfunctions or is defective.
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Does a betta need a heater?
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Heaters work in conjunction with water flow.
Tanks with no filter or water flow often encounter problems with heating. Heaters, typically, automatically turn off when they detect the surrounding water is at the set temperature. Therefore, stagnant water can take a while to properly disperse heat. If the temperature difference between the water and the air is too great, the water furthest from the heater will not maintain or reach the proper temp.
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*It's important to buy a heater appropriate for the size of your tank. 3-4 watts per gallon is a good rule of thumb. You can round up or down, as needed.
5 gallon tanks = 15-20 watt | 10 gallon tanks = 30-40 watt | 20 gallon tank = 60-80 watt | 30 gallon tank = 90-120 watts | 50 gallon tank = 150-200 watts and so on...
5 gallon tanks = 15-20 watt | 10 gallon tanks = 30-40 watt | 20 gallon tank = 60-80 watt | 30 gallon tank = 90-120 watts | 50 gallon tank = 150-200 watts and so on...
Preset Heaters
These heaters work in one of two ways: Either they are stuck at a set temperature (usually 78°F) or they raise the room temperature by 4-6°F depending on their wattage. Preset heaters tend to have lots of problems, ranging from inaccuracy to flat out malfunctioning. Mini, specialized "betta" heaters are not recommended as they typically continuously emit heat. If the room temperature were to increase (during summer months) the heater would not automatically turn off, which could be a danger to the fish.
Aqueon Preset Heater
50-200 watts Amazon: $11.29 - $16.10 Petco: $11.29 - $19.99 Chewy: $11.29 - $16.10 |
Tetra HT Submersible Aquarium Heater
50-200 watts Amazon: $11.92 - $12.87 Walmart: $11.92 - $24.68 |
Adjustable Heaters
These heaters let you adjust the temperature from as low as 68°F to as high as 93°F.
Eheim Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater
25-300 watts Amazon: $26.96 - $31.53 Foster & Smith: $23.99 - $34.99 |
Fluval E Advanced Electronic Heater
100-300 watts Amazon: $41.45 - $47.97 Foster & Smith: $52.99 - $55.99 |
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Thermometers
These are important for double checking the tank temperature.
I do not recommend strip/adhesive thermometers due to inaccuracy and the need to be regularly replaced.
I do not recommend strip/adhesive thermometers due to inaccuracy and the need to be regularly replaced.
Petco Brand (Imagitarium) Various Thermometers: $2.99 - $9.99
Walmart Various Thermometers: $5.39 - $12.97
Walmart Various Thermometers: $5.39 - $12.97
○Substrate
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Substrate includes anything that covers the bottom of the tank. It can be fine sand or chunky stones; even a bed of leaf litter. Bettas do not need substrate, as it doesn't affect them in any way. However, since they enjoy resting on plants, it's a good idea to use substrate to hold them down.
It also makes the tank look nice for us. |
Which substrate do I choose?
It really comes down to personal preference, and how much work you are willing to put into the maintenance of your tank. You can also freely mix substrates. I often add gravel to my sand, to give the bottom more texture.
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Can I use anything as substrate?
Almost.
You can use a bed of Cappata leaves (Indian Almond leaves) for bettas, though those will leach tannins into the water, discoloring it into a tea-like hue. Tannins are not harmful and actually good for the fish, but activated carbon will remove it from the water. You want to be sure the leaves are pesticide free. Certain plastics can leak BPA or BPS into the water, which is harmful for both humans and fish. Check all plastic stones and gems, to make sure they are made of polypropylene or polyethylene, these are food grade "safe" plastics. Most products that advertise themselves for aquariums are safe, but be wary of toys and gardening products. Soil is not a good substrate because of the pesticides and fertilizers it contains. Organic soil can be used, but it will cloud the water and should have a heavier substrate on top to weigh it down. Mulch can contain dyes which will leak into the water and can be toxic. If you wanted to make a bed of moss balls, go right ahead. You would need approximately 84 large Marimo Moss balls to cover the bottom of a 10 gallon tank. This would cost nearly $200. |
I'm going to link only to Amazon for the following substrates, but here are other store catalogues for reference:
Petco | Petsmart | Chewy | Walmart | Foster & Smith
Petco | Petsmart | Chewy | Walmart | Foster & Smith
*There are tons of different substrates you can use, but no matter what you choose, ALWAYS thoroughly rinse it with water to remove any dust or residue before adding it to the tank.
Gravel & Rocks
There are thousands of possibilities when it comes to gravels alone. Always thoroughly soak colored gravels with water to remove any dust or residue before adding them to the tank. Many gravels come with instructions to soak them for up to 2 days. Follow the directions!
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Marina Decorative Gravel, 1lb
Burgundy: $6.49 Orange: $6.49 Neon Yellow: $7.23 Blue Mix: $10.61 Blue: $7.12 Surf: $10.39 Purple: $3.00 Pink: $7.59 Rainbow: $3.00 Black: $3.00 Jellybean: $10.62 Marina Betta Gravel, 0.5lb *Cost is $2 in stores. White: $7.06 Blue: $2.76 Black: $8.98 Pink: $6.97 Red: $5.92 Brown: $5.00 
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Spectrastone Gravel, 5lb
Shallow Creek: $10.49 Swift Creek: $9.20 Deep River: $9.50 Ocean Beach: $12.05 Nutmeg: $12.65 Berry Lake: $8.50 Black Lagoon: $10.26 Rainbow: $10.80 Blue Jean: $11.81 Lake Green: $4.49 Princess: $12.29 Summer Blend: $13.59 Burgundy: $10.25 S. Red: $9.90 Pink: $9.58 Orange: $12.54 Yellow: $4.89 Green: $9.75 S. Green: $13.23 S. Turq: $12.98 L. Blue: $11.43 S. Blue: $4.29 Lavender: $10.80 White: $11.85 Black: $11.24 
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Sand
Always try to use sand advertised for aquariums. For bettas, avoid sand that alters the pH of the water, such as reef or marine sand.
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HTH Pool Sand, 50lb
Amazon: $51.48 *Be cautious with pool sand, construction sand, and play sand: many contain added chemicals which are harmful for your aquarium. Pool sands are the safer of the three and affordable in bulk. Research thoroughly if you decide to go this route. |
Aquatic Plant Soil
These substrates are meant to help grow aquatic plants by providing essential nutrients.
These must be gently rinsed because they can crumble apart.
These must be gently rinsed because they can crumble apart.
Other
○Decor
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Decor can be just as varied as substrate, and like substrate, you don't really need it to keep bettas. However, bettas do rest on plants and often swim into caves, so I recommend having these available for your fish.
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Plastic, Silk or Live Plants?
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Can I decorate my tank with anything?
Certain plastics can leak BPA or BPS into the water, which is harmful for both humans and fish. Check all plastic toys and decorations, to make sure they are made of polypropylene or polyethylene, these are food grade "safe" plastics. Also be wary of painted items: paint can chip off and become toxic for your fish. Most products that advertise themselves for aquariums are safe.
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I'm going to link mainly to Amazon for the following decor, but here are other store catalogues for reference:
Petco | Petsmart | Chewy | Walmart | Foster & Smith
Petco | Petsmart | Chewy | Walmart | Foster & Smith
*Always thoroughly rinse decorations before adding them to the tank.
Caves & Hides
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You can also build your own hide by stacking rocks and driftwood. I recommend buying these in a store so you can pick out your own unique pieces. Real driftwood needs to be soaked for up to two weeks to remove tannins that will discolor the water. |
Este Malaysian Driftwood - $19.78 - $36.06
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Natural Slate Stone - $15.95 - $22.95
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Silk Plants
Live Plants
This section is narrowed down to the most basic information and is not all inclusive.
I have only listed plants that I have owned myself, though there are hundreds to choose from.
I have only listed plants that I have owned myself, though there are hundreds to choose from.
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There are four categories of aquatic plants: foreground, midground, background, and floating. Think: small, medium, large. Each specific plant species will have different needs in regards to lighting and nutrients, but most of the time they are simply classified by their lighting requirements: low light, medium light, and high light.
LEDs provide enough light to sustain low to medium light requirements. Plants also have water parameters they do best in, the main two being temperature and pH. I recommend purchasing your first live plants in a local store, so you can see what they look like and pick out the ones you like best. Alternatively, you could purchase a "bundle," which is like a plant variety pack. These are available in many online stores. |
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○Water Care
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There are no shortcuts with this part: you must take care of the fish tank water. This includes treating it to ensure it's non-toxic for the fish, testing it to make sure the tank is cycled, and changing it out to remove nitrates; which do not go away on their own.
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Conditioners
Tap water contains chlorine or chloramine (chlorine bonded with ammonia.) This is to kill bacteria so it's safe to drink.
However, these chemicals are toxic to fish. The chlorine will even interfere with the nitrogen cycle by killing off beneficial bacteria.
Water conditioners are essential if you are using tap water or other chemically treated water. Just add it to the water, stir, and wait 5 minutes.
However, these chemicals are toxic to fish. The chlorine will even interfere with the nitrogen cycle by killing off beneficial bacteria.
Water conditioners are essential if you are using tap water or other chemically treated water. Just add it to the water, stir, and wait 5 minutes.
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Not all water conditioners are created equally.
Some only kill off chlorine, so read the labels carefully. Many conditioners also remove heavy metals from the water, such as copper. This is important to know if you are keeping invertebrates. Seachem Prime is favored by many because not only is it a traditional conditioner, but it also detoxifies ammonia, nitrates, and nitrites. This is useful for cycling your tank but it should not be a replacement for filter media. |
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Water Testing
Water testing tools are useful for ensuring your tank is cycled. It allows you to troubleshoot your tank by checking every parameter.
You do not need to purchase these products, because many pet shops will test your water for free if you bring a cup to them.
I highly recommend these if you own multiple tanks.
You do not need to purchase these products, because many pet shops will test your water for free if you bring a cup to them.
I highly recommend these if you own multiple tanks.
What are water parameters?
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pH
Ammonia = NH3/NH4 Nitrite = NO−2 Nitrate = NO−3 General Hardness = GH Carbonate Hardness = KH |
pH is a scale that measures the acidity (0) or basicity (14) of water. Pure water has a neutral pH of 7.
Bettas prefer a pH of around 6-7 but can tolerate up to 8.5. It's important to keep the pH stable. Ammonia, Nitrite, and Nitrate are part of the nitrogen cycle, each serving a purpose. A tank without enough beneficial bacteria will have these levels all over the place. Ideally, you want nitrates between 5-10 parts per million (ppm) with ammonia and nitrites reading 0 ppm. You can lower all three levels with water changes. GH refers to the water's ability to maintain positive mineral ions (calcium/magnesium/etc.) Weaker GH means the water is soft and stronger GH means the water is hard. Bettas originate from soft water, which is read between 70-140 ppm. KH refers to the water's ability to maintain pH. KH correlates directly to pH, and the amount needed will vary. Bettas are hardy fish, so if your pH, GH, and KH is reading slightly higher or lower levels then normal, they will adapt. What's important is that these levels are stable. (Ex. A rapidly dropping pH can kill a fish.) |
Undoubtedly, API dominates the water testing market, and I do recommend their products.
There is some controversy over the liquid tests and the strips; people claim the strips are inaccurate.
This is because the strips can easily expire: any moisture will contaminate them, rendering them useless.
If you go with the strips, buy the lowest count pack and always keep the container sealed tight.
Oh, and follow the directions on the box for all test kits.
There is some controversy over the liquid tests and the strips; people claim the strips are inaccurate.
This is because the strips can easily expire: any moisture will contaminate them, rendering them useless.
If you go with the strips, buy the lowest count pack and always keep the container sealed tight.
Oh, and follow the directions on the box for all test kits.
Tools for Water Changing
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Hoses and manual vacuums are necessary for siphoning debris at the bottom of the tank. These tools make water changing much easier. Instead of dunking a bucket in and out of the tank, just drop the hose in and start the suction!
A bucket will be required for bringing clean water to the tank and transporting dirty water away. Any brand gravel cleaner will work. Make sure the bucket you choose is capable of holding water. Water weighs 8.34 lbs per gallon. A 5 gallon bucket of water will weigh about 42 lbs. |
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○Misc.
Lights, Lids, & Hoods
Tops and lights are optional. Lighting is necessary if you've got live plants. Tops are useful for keeping cats out of the fish tank and can help trap moisture and heat inside. If you've purchased a kit, it likely came with a LED hood. You could replace it if you wanted, but remember to measure your tank before buying a new top. Some tanks are designed slightly different from brand to brand.
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You could choose any type of lighting you want, but if you have aquatic plants, it's best to pay attention to their specific light requirements. LED's are sufficient for plants that require low to medium light and they are much more energy efficient. Again, any light will work if you just want to see your fish. I use these two lights in my planted tanks ---> |
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Hoods can be complicated because of the difference in brand sizes. If you purchased an Aqueon glass tank, you'll want an Aqueon hood. There are, of course, exceptions to the rule; but, for example, if you purchased an Aquaculture glass tank, the Aqueon hood might not fit.
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Exo Terra Screen Cover 10-55 Gallon
Amazon: $15.15 - $26.20 |
Aqueon Versa-Top Hinged Glass Aquarium Tops
Amazon: $21.00 - $50.84 |
Nets
You'll need a net to catch your fish. Some kits come with nets.
You can catch a fish with your hands, if you are gentle.
You can catch a fish with your hands, if you are gentle.
Other Useful Tools
Magnetic Glass Cleaner
Example Useful for removing algae in-between water changes, but they cannot reach corners effectively. Do NOT use household cleaning sponges for wiping aquariums: They contain anti-microbial agents and are toxic to fish. |
Pipette
Example Useful for dispensing food, medication, water conditioners, and other products into the aquarium. |
Toys
You can play with your betta, and even teach him tricks! These are all completely optional, but fun additions.
Exercise Mirror
Example: $6.38 When bettas see their reflection, they think it's another fish. As a result, they will flare! Flaring is healthy in moderation. Any mirror will get the same result. Never leave the mirror in the tank for more then 15 minutes a day, or the fish will become stressed. |
Betta Hammock
Example: $2.96 Bettas often rest on leaves, near the surface of the water. If you don't have tall enough plants, these are simple solutions. It's extremely cute to see them resting on the leaf. |