Instructions on How to Make Betta Fish Bowls
Betta fish, also known as the Siamese fighting fish, are brightly colored fish that are popular aquatic pets. In an attempt to show their impressiveness, bettas fan their gills and fins to show off their colors. Although bettas are easy to care for, certain steps should be followed to ensure that your betta's tank is properly set up. If you set up your tank correctly ahead of time you can help ensure a healthy, happy betta.
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Things You'll Need
- Tank
- Dividers
- Water treatments
- Testing kits
- Chemicals
- Thermometer
- Heater
- Substrate
- Colander
- Plants
- Betta
- Scissors
- Cover
Instructions
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1
Choose a tank for your betta. Although bettas can survive in smaller tanks, such as a half gallon of water per fish, they prefer larger tanks of at least a gallon per fish. Since the males of the species are aggressive, they should be kept in separate tanks or in tanks with dividers. Females can be mixed among other females as long as they have enough room.
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2
Clean your tank with water. Do not use soap or other cleaning solutions. These can leave residues that can harm your fish. While you are cleaning your tank, fill it with water and allow it to sit for a few minutes to see if there are any slow leaks. If there are, do not use it.
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3
Place your tank where you intend to keep it. Fill it with room temperature tap water and allow it to sit for a full 24 hours. This allows chlorine to evaporate from the water and the water to reach room temperature. Another option is to use bottled, not distilled, water or add a water treatment from your local pet store.
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4
Use store-bought testing kits to check the pH of your water and add adjusting chemicals as needed. You are looking for a neutral reading of 7 but your fish can handle anywhere from 6.5 to 7.5.
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5
Install a tank thermometer to monitor your water temperature. Ideally, the water should remain between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Install a tank heater if your water is considerably cooler.
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6
Choose a substrate for the bottom of your tank. You can purchase glass beads from your local craft store or aquarium gravel from your local pet store. Place the substrate into a colander and run water over it. Rinse your chosen substrate in running water until the water runs clear. You can also add live or plastic plants at this time. Be sure to rinse them under running water as well.
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7
Place your new betta, in the bag he came home in, into your tank. Leave the fish in the bag for at least two to three hours to allow the fish to adjust to the water temperature.
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8
Use scissors to add a small hole to the bag. Place the bag back in the tank and allow the water from the bag and the tank to intermingle for the next 30 minutes.
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9
Remove your fish from the bag and place it in the tank.
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10
Place a cover on your tank to ensure your betta does not jump out.
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Tips & Warnings
An aerator is necessary if you have more than a 5 gallon tank.
Filters are not necessary, but bettas enjoy the flowing water.
