filtering for betta?

FishGirl

My betta is in a 75g, previously in a 14g. He enjoys the current (which is the opposite from what I've read), however, he does look for places to rest out of the current, near rocks or on plants. But there are times he definate looks for the current and plays in it.

Kim

A jar or a bowl is a horrible environment for a betta.

1) They need a heater. They are tropical fish that do well in temps of 78-80.
2) Not enough swimming or stimulation. Really, would you want to spend your entire life in one small room?
3) Often inadequate cleaning or filtration. You'd have to clean a 1 gal bowl or smaller every day and that's a lot of stress on the betta.
4) Bettas are not "afraid" of large areas. The only tanks that wouldn't work for a betta are ones that have aggressive or overly active tank mates/uncompatable parameter requirements, and tanks that are too tall and do not have adequate plants near the surface for resting. Tanks with high current are not advisable either because bettas are really bad swimmers. So, yes bettas have different needs just like all other species do, but the betta in a bowl scenario is certainly NOT an acceptable home at all.

I have a mini canister filter for my 2 in a divided 10 gal. I put nylon over the intake and put the outtake tube facing the wall so any current is deflected. It works perfectly. Sponge filters work as well, as does the little azoo that I have on my 5.5 gallon but you'd need 2 for a 10 gallon.

tophat665

Just a thought, in a 75 gallon tank, would it be possible with some judicious aquascaping to house two male bettas? What size territory does a male betta claim in in the wild?

aunt kymmie

Good question. I wonder what the answer is.

iamntbatman

I don't remember where, but I remember seeing somewhere that a 125g is really the minimum for housing two males together, so I'm guessing the territories are large enough to require at least 6' of space.