There are many options for your Betta's new home. But not all of them are ideal. For example, those tiny bowls, vases, and other novelty containers may seem like an okay place to house your Betta, but they are much more trouble than they are worth. First of all, in order for your water to be clean, you would have to change all the water every 2 or 3 days, depending on the size. If you miss one cleaning, you may wake up the next morning with your Betta floating belly up. So what are the options and which on is the best?
Option #1-The Individual Tank
This is the best possible home for your Betta. Aquariums 2.5 gallons and up gives your friend plenty of room to swim around and show off his best colors and finnage. Plus, you can add a heater, filter, and decorations to make his home even better. Just remember that you can only have one male Betta per aquarium.
Option #2-The Smaller Individual Tank
If you are tight on money or space, then this is the choice for you. However, it is important to at least try to get the largest home you can afford. But if you do choose this set up thinking that it will be easier to keep clean, well think again. In such a small space, waste accumulates to toxic levels in only a few days. Like I said before, if you buy those quart sized jars, be prepared to change all of the water every 2 or 3 days. Not only is this inconvenient for the owner, but it is stressful for the Betta as well.
Option #3-Divided Aquariums
This option is third best because it allows you to have more than one Betta. However, this option has its flaws. For example, if one Betta is sick, the rest will become sick since they share the same water. There will also be problems with the water flow. One Betta will be swimming in a whirlpool, while the others won't have any filtration. And if the dividers aren't high enough, one of the Bettas may jump to the other side and then you would end up with injured or even dead Bettas.
Option #4-Betta Barracks
Betta barracks are similar in both pros and cons to the divided tank but is worse because most barracks are way too small. What it is is basically a smaller tank that either floats or attaches to the inside of a larger aquarium, supposedly saving space. However, because it is too small, the Betta is more likely to jump out into the main tank and if the main tank is filled with incompatible fish such as Tiger Barbs, you can say bye to your Betta.
Option #5-Bettas In A Bowl
This is one of the WORST possible homes one can give his or her Betta. First of all, most are too small. Secondly, the shape of the bowl inhibits sufficient oxygen from getting to the Betta. Thirdly, many bowls that come with a plant give instructions saying that the Betta should not be fed because the plant and the Betta feed each other. Do not listen to any of that! Bettas are carnivores, meaning plants don't give them any nutritional value. Sure they'll nibble on the roots, but only because they are extremely hungry! I'm sure you would eat a bug if you were starving!
I don't mean to scare you away from keeping Bettas, but so many people keep them in small bowls or don't even bother to keep up with their cleanings. Then, they are confused about why their fish are dying. Just remember to always try to do what is best for your Betta and they will thank you with their unique personalities!
Option #1-The Individual Tank
This is the best possible home for your Betta. Aquariums 2.5 gallons and up gives your friend plenty of room to swim around and show off his best colors and finnage. Plus, you can add a heater, filter, and decorations to make his home even better. Just remember that you can only have one male Betta per aquarium.
Option #2-The Smaller Individual Tank
If you are tight on money or space, then this is the choice for you. However, it is important to at least try to get the largest home you can afford. But if you do choose this set up thinking that it will be easier to keep clean, well think again. In such a small space, waste accumulates to toxic levels in only a few days. Like I said before, if you buy those quart sized jars, be prepared to change all of the water every 2 or 3 days. Not only is this inconvenient for the owner, but it is stressful for the Betta as well.
Option #3-Divided Aquariums
This option is third best because it allows you to have more than one Betta. However, this option has its flaws. For example, if one Betta is sick, the rest will become sick since they share the same water. There will also be problems with the water flow. One Betta will be swimming in a whirlpool, while the others won't have any filtration. And if the dividers aren't high enough, one of the Bettas may jump to the other side and then you would end up with injured or even dead Bettas.
Option #4-Betta Barracks
Betta barracks are similar in both pros and cons to the divided tank but is worse because most barracks are way too small. What it is is basically a smaller tank that either floats or attaches to the inside of a larger aquarium, supposedly saving space. However, because it is too small, the Betta is more likely to jump out into the main tank and if the main tank is filled with incompatible fish such as Tiger Barbs, you can say bye to your Betta.
Option #5-Bettas In A Bowl
This is one of the WORST possible homes one can give his or her Betta. First of all, most are too small. Secondly, the shape of the bowl inhibits sufficient oxygen from getting to the Betta. Thirdly, many bowls that come with a plant give instructions saying that the Betta should not be fed because the plant and the Betta feed each other. Do not listen to any of that! Bettas are carnivores, meaning plants don't give them any nutritional value. Sure they'll nibble on the roots, but only because they are extremely hungry! I'm sure you would eat a bug if you were starving!
I don't mean to scare you away from keeping Bettas, but so many people keep them in small bowls or don't even bother to keep up with their cleanings. Then, they are confused about why their fish are dying. Just remember to always try to do what is best for your Betta and they will thank you with their unique personalities!