Betta Fish Tanks

Filtration Systems

Betta fish are relatively easy to care for and their low maintenance is particularly appealing to people who would like to have fish but don’t have a lot of time to care for them.

If you are keeping your Betta fish in a  jar or bowl (not recommended) you should keep your Betta in a big enough container so that he can swim around and not bump or tear his fins or scales. Also be sure there is plenty of surface area so that he can get enough oxygen.

Your Betta fish does not require a filtration system but you must provide  it with the cleanest water possible. You should change out a third of the water every three days so it stays fresh and clean and keeps your Betta from getting bacterial or fungal infections. Aged water should be used to replace the old water. You can age your water by setting it out for at least 24 hours. You might also want to invest in a product like Bio-Safe Water Conditioner that removes chlorine and other chemicals from tap water.

If you are using an aquarium chances are you have more than just  a Betta fish in it. (note - Betta’s can be coupled with algae eaters, guppies, or corydorus catfish safely). In this case you will likely have a filtration system. Optimally the water for keeping healthy Bettas should be soft, warm, with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Water movement should be kept to a minimum and this means that power filters and powerheads are not suitable.

The PH of your tank should be about 7.0. You can get a PH testing kit at your pet store along with solutions to minimize or increase the PH of your water.

Three Types of Filtration

In aquariums there can be three types of filtration processes - biological, chemical, and mechanical. All tanks need at least some form of biological and mechanical filtration to maintain a healthy environment. It's a good idea to understand the basics of each type of filtration so you can make an informed decision when selecting a filter.

Mechanical - Mechanical filtration involves the removal of particles of waste by passing water continuously through foam or other porous material. The filter traps particles of debris, and is periodically cleaned or replaced. Because solid waste is constantly being produced in your tank, a mechanical filter of some type is a must.

Chemical - In chemical filtration water is passed though material such as carbon, which removes at least some of the dissolved materials. Toxic metals, ammonia, and even odors can be filtered out chemically. While chemical filtration is not absolutely required, it can be useful combined with other filtration methods. Chemical filtration is particularly helpful when starting a new tank, because it can remove ammonia

Biological - Fish produce wastes which cannot be filtered completely using mechanical or chemical methods. Unless these wastes are removed, over time they will build up to a lethal level. In biological filtration, two types of beneficial bacteria known as "nitrofiers" grow in the tank and convert harmful wastes into something less harmful. All aquariums need to have successful biological filtration in order for the fish to remain healthy.Typically it takes about a month to establish a flourishing biological colony that will effectively filter all the harmful wastes

Check with your local pet shop for more information on what type to use with your particular set up.

I like using Fluval ceramic rings to promote water purifying bacteria.

Fluval® BioMax Media

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