Betta Fish Aquariums usually vary in size, ranging from small fish bowls to larger, full-sized aquariums. To fully comprehend the needs of a betta, we must look at their natural territory as a basis. Bettas are in fact from the slow moving streams, ponds, and rice paddies of Asia. And those conditions should be replicated in order to effectively rear bettas. So, to mimic those conditions, Betta fish tanks should range from 5 to 10 gallons.
Though you can have moderate success in using small fish-bowls to house a betta, the size of a 5 to 10 gallon tank would be beneficial to both you and the betta, since the temperature in a bigger body of water tends to be more constant and would only change slightly when ambient
temperature changes. The larger tank would also help you since that means less regular water changes.
Aquarium Water
With the size of the tank out of the way, we need to settle the other aspects of our betta fish aquarium. The type of water is also crucial to a betta's survival. Contrary to popular belief, using distilled water isn't the best for bettas because of the filtering process that removes most minerals in the water. Tap water is usually adequate for bettas provided that you treat the water to remove chlorine or let it sit for over 24 hours before adding it to your tank.
Aquarium Filters
Filtering the water could also be an issue. Bettas are quite used to the tranquil or slow moving water in ponds and rice paddies, which means that using a high flow filter inside your betta fish aquarium is already out of the question. These types of filters will cause too much turbulence and the betta would find it hard to come up to the surface to catch a breath (Bettas have a specialized organ called a labyrinth that allows them to breathe air).
Aquarium Gravel
You must also purchase a natural looking substrate or gravel to place inside your betta fish aquarium. Taking pebbles from your backyard simply isn't going to be the best replication of its natural environment. You must also keep the tanks' temperature to closely resemble the tropical
climate of roughly 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Final Thoughts
Building appropriate betta fish aquariums is not that difficult a task. You just need to have a tank that is adequate in size. Keep in mind though that the suggested size is for one betta fish. If you would like to add a well-suited fish, you may have to upgrade your tank's size so that they can
be properly accommodated. Aside from the proper betta fish aquarium, you must also understand how to maintain the right levels of ammonia, nitrites, and pH. You must maintain these levels in the water so that it doesn't become noxious to your betta. You should also learn about the right food
and feeding schedules so that your betta fish remains fit and lives for a long time.
Mischa Hill is a Betta fish enthusiast. His website compares prices on a large selection of betta fish aquariums. Visit his site also for betta fish care tips, price comparison on betta fish aquariums, supplies, remedies, books and more. Also, sign up for FREE Mini-Course on Betta fish care.
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