Violet Veiltails Betta Blog

Perhaps you're like me and prefer to set up your own tanks from bare glass to aquatic awesome. If so, then cool. I'll show you how I would set up a typical 5 gallon aquarium for a betta.

Choice #1: Type of Tank

There are several types of tanks out there to choose from, from simple rectangles to bowfronts and even hexagons. There's also the material to consider. Acrylic is lighter, more durable, but prone to scratching and a little harder to clean in my opinion. I generally like regular Plain-Jane glass rectangle aquariums. Easy to clean, easy to find a spot, and easy to set up.

Choice #2: Where To Place Your Tank

At first, setting up your tank next to your window seems cool. Let all your neighbors see your beautiful fish and give him a little sunshine, and all that. But please don't. Windows are a source of drafts, which will cool down your tank. Of course the windows let in sunlight, which will heat your tank up. That kind of temperature fluctuation can be very dangerous for your betta. Also, sunlight promotes the growth of algae, which is a pain to clean. However, a little sunlight for an hour or two a day is a good thing, especially for crowntails in my opinion. This helps to reduce "curling" in the crowntail's signature rays.

Try to set your tank on a stable surface, like a tank stand, a sturdy dresser, or a table devoted to the tank. Remember that even a 5 gallon tank weighs a lot when set up and full of water. Avoid drafts and direct sunlight.

Choice #3: Substrate

This is just a fancy word for what is going to cover the bottom of the tank. Gravel, sand, marbles, whatever. Plain old gravel from a bag is fine by me. Some owners will say that the rough edges of the gravel will tear at your betta's fins. I say that's a little far-fetched. Most bettas lay on leaves or large rocks, something off the floor of the tank. (It's like they know about fin rot.) However, marbles and other smooth rocks are fine, however, and you may find that they complement your betta in some way. Just remember that at least twice a year, your going to have to take out everything, including the gravel, and scrub the hell out of it.

Choice #3: Plants

Normally I would put this under decorations, but for bettas, it needs a little bit more detail. You should have some form of plants in your tank, be it real or fake. Real plants are great, but remember, they take a little extra care. Fake plants are my personal favorite. If you can afford it, go with silk plants. That way, there aren't any rough and jagged edges to snag of your betta's fins. However, I've never had problems with plastic plants, but I do sand mine down vigorously before I use them. If you're in doubt, use the "Pantyhose test." Drag a piece of pantyhose across the plant. If it snags, then sand it. If it snag a lot or tears it, don't use the plant.

Choice #4: Decorations

Everyone has seen those gaudy little goldfish castles and little bubble-blowing treasure chests. Some of them are cute and some are down-right neat. (I'm a fan of the Greek-Roman ruins myself.) But the pantyhose test counts here too. Try to give your little buddy a place to hide and sleep, like a little fish cave. I also like the half of a terracotta planting pot cave. Just make sure that the pot has never been used before. Buy it specifically for this purpose. Fertilizer and chemicals can be absorbed in the terracotta and released in the tank water, which may kill your fish.

Choice #4: Filter

For a 5 gallon aquarium, a filter really is a must. Get something small and unobtrusive. Remember, bettas aren't very powerful swimmers, and a strong current will bother them. Try the Tetra Whisper Power Filter for the tank's size. Whisper filters let out a calm current that usually just stays at the surface. Quinn has never had a problem with the Whisper he has now. Just remember to stock up on filter cartridges.

Choice #5: Heater

A heater in a 5 gallon aquarium is a decent idea, since it's large enough to handle one. A betta prefers temperatures around 76-80 degrees. It is a tropical fish after all. Just remember to acclimate him to the water first. The Tetra heater for 5-10 gallon aquariums is decent buy.

Oh, and one quick thing about heaters: When you do water changes, TURN YOUR HEATER OFF 20 MINUTES BEFORE YOU CHANGE THE WATER. Otherwise the heater will crack, or maybe even shatter. Unplug it and let it cool down before you take or add water.