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schmoe asked in PetsFish · 1 decade ago

some questions of bettas?

I got a betta today in a bowl on the weekend i am getting a bigger one :)

i saw a betta hammock should i get it?? and does the betta need a filter or heater and do they need decore??

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  • 1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    Beta's would like something to hide in and some greenery. They do not need filters or heaters, as long as you change the water regularly. Water that is not filtered needs to be changed a lot more frequently than filtered water, so it is up to you. My happiest and longest-living Betas were housed in glass vases with the plants (where you clean off the roots and use the plastic tray to sit it down into the water), where you don't even need to feed them. It's the prettiest too...

  • 1 decade ago

    You should have at least a five gallon tank for your betta.

    You need a filter.

    You need a heater that keeps the temperature between 78 - 82 degrees for a betta to be comfortable.

    Bettas do like things like "betta hammocks" so that they can rest on them but be close enough to the surface to get air.

    All fish need gravel and decor to make them feel safe. Fill your 5+ gallon tank with a bag of gravel and lots of silk plants (Try not to get any hard plastic plants with sharp edges as Betta tales are very delicate.)

    Good luck!

    EDIT: You NEED to have your temperature at 78 degrees at the very least! Bettas are tropical fish and need warm water. They will not thrive in cold water and he will be more likely to display his beautiful tail when it a comfortable, warm environment. PLEASE keep him in a heated tank. :)

    Source(s): I currently have a 3 female sorority tank.
  • 1 decade ago

    You need an aquarium, and a filter, and a heater...

    Here are the basics you need to know for your Betta to live a long and happy life:

    1. A cycled ( http://www.firsttankguide.net/cycle.php and http://www.aquaticcommunity.com/aquarium%E2%80%A6 ) 5 gallon or larger aquarium is minimal for a single Betta.

    2. A filter is necessary in any tank in order to keep the water aerated and free of toxins. For Bettas it is best to set the filter flow to low, as they are not very strong swimmers. Another good option is a sponge filter. If your current filter is too strong, you can remedy it by covering the intake with a pair of pantyhose, putting a tall plant in front of the output, or follow these instructions to oufit your filter with a simple current/flow reducer: http://www.petfish.net/kb/entry/347/

    3. A heater is essential. Bettas need warm steady temperatures of about 80F, to thrive. Constant fluctuation leads to stress, which inevitably leads to disease and often death. You can find an inexpensive heater for a small tank at any fish store.

    4. In a 5-gallon or larger tank, weekly 25% water changes, using a gravel siphon are necessary. Water conditioner must be added to the new water before it is put in the tank to remove toxic chlorine, chloramine, metals, etc. Never change all of your Bettas water, as this shock your Betta, and ultimately weaken him. The Betta stays IN the aquarium during water changes.

    5. Bettas enjoy a well planted aquarium, (use live or silk plants, plastic can tear their fins,) with a cave or two for exploring and resting. The tank should not, however, be stuffed with plants, as Bettas also need a good amount of room to swim. (And swim they will if given enough space.)

    6. Feed your Betta a good staple, carnivore- specific, pellet or flake diet, substituting frozen foods such as brine shrimp and blood worms several times per week. Reserve one day per week for fasting.

    When properly cared for, Bettas have been known to live for 10 years. I have personally known them to live for 6.

    Betta info:

    http://www.firsttankguide.net/betta.php

    and

    http://www.fishlore.com/Articles/betta-fish-care-g...

    Source(s): Experience.
  • 1 decade ago

    Do yourself a big favor and go ahead and get a 3-5 gallon tank. Bettas need a heater and I prefer a filter but one is not needed. The betta hammock isn't a bad idea but it is not necessary. They do need atleast a small cave or so as a hiding place but no other decor is needed. Hope this helps!

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  • 1 decade ago

    You SHOULD get a filter, because it will make your life easier, but it's not necessary. If you don't get a filter, you'll probably be cleaning the tank/bowl about once a week. They don't need heaters, just be careful with keeping temperatures constant when changing bowls. And decor is up to you, though I'm sure they would find life more interesting if they had stuff to swim in and around. :D

    Source(s): Veterinary Student
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