They are both measured in parts per million (ppm). Nitrite and nitrate measurements are also important to watch, especially when you first set up your tank. So your water’s pH level is off-now what? If your tap water is out of range for betta health, use a product like API Proper pH 7.0 Aquarium Water Treatment that is specifically designed to modify and maintain pH levels in freshwater aquariums. Tap water in most places falls somewhere between 6.5 and 8.5, so it’s a good idea to check the pH of your tap water before putting your fish in it, as too high or low a pH level will seriously stress out your betta. Betta fish parents should pay special attention to pH levels, nitrite and nitrate.īettas do best when kept in water with a neutral pH of around 7, though they can tolerate a range of 6.5 to 7.5. Getting familiar with these water quality measurements is useful for understanding fish and aquarium health. Hardness (GH), a measure of calcium and magnesium ions, which are important for breeding certain species of fishes.Carbonate (KH), a measure of dissolved bicarbonate and carbonate ions, which indicates the buffering capacity, or pH stability, of your water.Nitrite and nitrate, both nitrogenous compounds that come from the breakdown of ammonia, the main waste product that fish excrete through their gills.These will measure five parameters for you: You can check pH quickly and easily by using test strips like API’s 5-in-1 Test Strips. To make sure the water in your betta’s tank has healthy levels of compounds, ions and pH, you’ll want to test it weekly. The 50-watt Tetra HT10 Submersible Aquarium Heater & Electronic Thermostat is a good option because it automatically maintains water at 78 degrees Fahrenheit and can be used in aquariums up to 10 gallons. The general rule is 1 watt of power per 1 liter (3.8L per gallon) of water for a 5-gallon tank, for instance, you’ll need at least a 20-watt heater. You will need a heater to keep the temperature in range, and you should choose one with enough power to heat your whole tank. Water Temperatureīettas need warm water between 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit, ideally at the upper range of those temperatures, to be comfortable. Here’s how to ensure you’re keeping them in the perfect type of water. If you live in a place with nice natural light, your betta may not require an artificial light source, but if the room your fish lives in is on the darker side, you’ll definitely want to give your betta an aquarium light, too.īettas have specific water needs, from temperature to pH levels and other measures of quality. The 5-gallon Marineland Portrait Blade Light Aquarium Kit is a great option for betta fish parents because it comes complete with filtration and lighting right out of the box. sea shells, dried coral or beach sand, which can alter the pH of your tank water.painted ornaments (the coating will degrade and flake off in the water).sharp decorations that can snag or tear your fish’s fins.But you can’t put just anything in your betta’s tank. You can replicate the characteristics of these environments by providing your betta with decorations like plants (real or fake), logs and caves. In the wild, bettas’ native habitats are rice paddies with plenty of places to hide and rest. (Imagine spending your whole life in a space the size of your bathroom, for instance.) Bettas are not big fish, but they do enjoy space to roam, and living in too small a tank for an extended period of time will shorten their life span. Bettas can survive in smaller tanks, but just because it’s possible doesn’t mean it’s pleasant. Your betta’s aquarium should hold a minimum of 5 gallons of water.
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