Read more…. I bought them over the summer. If you decide to introduce tank mates, create a sorority, or place your betta fish in a community tank, filtration will be required for increased oxygenation and water quality. Filters also help to ensure your aquarium is oxygenated throughout. I’m at a complete lost!! I’m interested in getting a sponge filter and an some type of light. What size bowl or tank can you keep your betta fish in? Cycling is going to be out of the question for you since you already have the fish, so you may want to pick up some “quick-start” which will add beneficial bacteria to the tank and speed up the process for you to acclimate them into the water on the same day or 24 hours later. Remember, the change in habitat can cause some initial stress too. The larger the tank, the less maintenance you’ll need to do. Hi! Caring for a betta fish without a filter is actually a lot more work. I only put in a few drops in new water when I do a 10-15% water change weekly. But before you even transfer your fish in a glass bowl full of water, you must make sure that water is warm enough for the survival of your Betta fish. Based on the criterion we have set for this review, we believe the Betta fish is the best fish for a bowl without filter. Betta fish are known to survive in small environments, stagnant water and require little upkeep. I thought about a sponge filter with few anubias in the tank, but I need a new silent, hopefully, low-cost air pump to let it work and I don’t really know what to get. For the biological water filtration, the Marineland Penguin Power Filter has a BIO-Wheel that removes toxins such as ammonia and nitrite in the water. ), water temp, or environment. Do a Google search for “sponge filter aquarium setup” and you can then view the images. It’s not a simple yes or no answer because they can survive and even thrive in both scenarios with the right care. Bryan. I’m still heartbroken, I don’t want another dead friend. Without heaters all of my tanks are at 78-80 degrees at all times. Needless to say the pump was filled with crap and the bottom too so I had to empty it which meant emptying her water again. He keeps fins clamped and stays at top. A suitable filter: The filtration system is a crucial criterion for selecting a Betta fish tank, not only to maintain the water quality but also to keep the water circulation rate comfortable. it has my head spinning. I assume that tank was a lot larger in size, had lots of hiding places and likely had other species in there as well so the two bettas weren’t always in visual contact with each other. My fish is 2 years old. Also, you need to make sure to acclimate him to the new water and temp of the new tank, and ensure the new tank is heated as well. Hello Bryan. Betta fish need frequent partial water changes. Water might look the same, whether it comes from your faucet or from a bottle you buy at the store. I am thinking of getting small HOB filters with adjustable power for each tank, switching on the filters for only a couple of hours at night just to filter of dirty stuff accumulated in them. Do I need a thermometer? Make sure to ask if the filter will also affect the temperature level of the water in the aquarium. I bought two 1 gallon tanks for my kids two betta fish, upon the advice from the big name pet shop. Is that bad and what do I need to do? Hi, the guy at Petsmart recommended the Tetra Whisper for my Dragon Scale Betta, so that’s what I ended up getting. So frustrated im not doing the pet fish thing right. I had seeds slip into the main tank and make an absolute mess. After 2 days the water seems to be almost clear again. Learn betta fish care with this 10 step guide. So here’s my question: if I make it a bare-bottom tank, which I assume would be easier to clean regularly, (with plants and hiding places of course) and no filter – what would be the best procedure to maintain a healthy tank and Betta? You could also look into a tank divider and have 2-bettas one on each side so they would each have 4.5-gallons of space. I did notice the fins don’t look as full as before. Rinsing the filter in the tank’s water does help to retain some beneficial bacteria in the filter media, which is why that’s recommended. Constant water changes can limit these beneficial microorganisms and create stress as well. Should we buy a new tank with a filter? Also, my tank is crowded and doesn’t have that much room for a bigger filter. This can help to reduce the flow and turbulence in the tank for betta fish. I had him in a one an a half gallon bowl, with a small heater, marbles at the bottom, a small plant, and a snail. If your water parameters are fine and they don’t spike rapidly then it’s completely up to you. Well, I have come to the conclusion that is only illness is COLD! Room temperature is recommended but keep in mind that Betta fish thrive in warm waters at a temperature ranging between 78 … Is the tank heated and filtered? I got a 54L tank around 14 U.S. gallons, do you think a betta will be fine on it? I have a betta in a 3 gal bowl, no filter with a moss ball and another live plant, so is it ok not to do 100% water changes? Need your advice. A tetra filter is ideal for small aquariums of up to 10 gallons of water. Currently changing 50% of water every week. Also wondering what type of thermometer I could position on the glass maybe to make sure indeed the water is at 78 average? An air filter is a good back up in case the power filter breakdowns. That habitat is not conducive to proper betta health. I personally own a Fluval Spec V – 5-gallon and feel it’s perfect. Any thoughts on some snails or some type of shrimp that will be fine in a filterless tank? Its installation process is easy and quick. If that is the case, then get a filter that functions quietly since there are plenty of then in the market. OR just add the fresh water to the bowl. Changing the filter every 3 months is okay, and necessary. They are intended for either aquariums that are filled with water or for aquariums with low water. During droughts, a wild betta may even end up in a murky puddle for a period of time with very little oxygen. Thermometers help to read the temperature of tank’s water, if it’s below 78 degrees Fahrenheit, then you should get a heater as well to maintain proper tropical temperatures. You can read more about the process here. According to test strips the water was good though perhaps a a bit soft and alkalinity slightly lower than ideal. Penn Plax Cascade Hang-on Aquarium Filter is a fresh and marine water filter that is suitable for small sized aquariums from 55 to 100 gallons of water. Aqueon Quietflow Internal Power Filter is a fully submersible water filter ideal for aquarium or terrarium use. The intake area could present a problem if it’s very strong and the betta could accidentally get sucked up against it and not be able to swim away. I’m not sure to be honest. Hi Laura. The water is neither filtered nor heated. Hanging on the back and internal filters come in varying strengths and may be too strong for a betta fish. Most people assume, that a betta is best suited for keep in a small bowl with stagnant water. Thanx, Donna. Store clerk said its fine for Betta. This bowl is around 7.5 gallons, 6 months old and doesn’t use any filter, ferts or C02. Well, you have a few options. The most important consideration for betta fish is their strength, with having an adjustable flow being crucial. Live plants, like marimo moss balls, can help clean the tank and oxygenate the water. Also, when doing small water changes can you over do it on water conditioner? Do those help? His symptoms are likely from too cold of water, and ammonia and other things building up quickly in a bowl. That is a big upgrade in size from what he is used to. Betta fish secrete ammonia at all times. Best Beta Fish Tanks Money helps you to list out the best habitats for beta fish and make your home more beautiful. What size tank Krista? Filters are not ideal for tanks under 3 gallons and you should upgrade the size of your betta’s habitat. But a week and half ago suddenly her ammonia was really bad. every thing I learned I learned from your forum (thank you!) We discuss 5 to choose from, to suit different tank sizes, so there should be one for everyone. Each stage is fitted with cartridges that are equipped with activated carbon ready for use. The wheezing and vibrations can be irritating especially at night when everything in the surrounding environment is quiet. near a window). He was a very active fish a few months ago but suddenly stopped swimming and prefers to lie at the bottom of the tank. This will reduce the rate at which water is being pulled into the filter, therefore reducing the overall turbulence in the whole system. The filter is fully submerged in water, operates quietly and consumes the least wattage. It may come back if you wait too long during water changes like that (increase the frequency), or if the tank is exposed to too much light. Not so! Your betta should be able to swim freely without struggling. They are a tropical type of fish and accustomed to a temperature over 76 degrees Fahrenheit. Thanks! I think you’d be better off going without the filter in a small tank, and doing as you said above. You are now on the right track, yes, and that sounds like a good setup for them. I have been using 2 java ferns in the corner of the flow coming from the pump and I have used three small marino balls and one big one. Filters in small tanks cause strong currents, which can toss a betta fish around and stress them out. The sponges trap particles and debris in the aquarium without sucking up the fish. Another quick fix which will also protect your betta fish is placing a pre-filter sponge on the intake tube to restrict water uptake and ultimately output. Without changing the tank, you will need to do frequent partial water changes and consider a live plant like a moss ball to aid in cleanliness and oxygenation. or is a sponge filter ok? Half-gallon bowls can be used, but you’ll need to change the water every 2-3 days. I’ll test her water today and see how it is it does, it does not look cloudy. Browse aquariums and fish bowls in different sizes and styles for your pet. I’m a new Betta/fish owner and am wondering how to clean a carbon filter and how often I should change it? Plants do certainly help, but I wouldn’t say they completely replace what a filter can do. This page may contain affiliate links, which will earn us a commission. If your heater has a built-in thermostat and the switching of the lights means it’s either heating or not, then that’s normal. Penn Plax Cascade Hang-on Aquarium Filter has a revolutionary Bio-Falls Quad Filtration System to ensure your aquarium is always clean and has a healthy environment for your betta. This ammonia is invisible but deadly to betta fish. You cannot adjust the flow, 2. I would look into a sponge filter setup if I were you, or think realistically about how you would baffle the flow of the water falling into the tank and restrict that intake area. Thanks so much! You don’t need to make sure that all debris is constantly removed, it just helps to keep you water cleaner for longer if you remove excess food and poop. I got few questions if you can answer. The Tetra Whisper Air Pump have capabilities to handle airing needs of aquariums from 10 to 100 gallons of water. It flows water at the rate of 150 litres per hour. We are really worried for our fish and would love to hear from you if you can suggest us and provide any help. A betta fish will live healthily and happy in an aquarium that has a water filter. The filter offers water flow controllability with its three features; an adjustable flow rate, adjustable flow direction and adjustable flow height. I would like to buy a new heater for my 3 gallons for my betta fish. Thank you. For size, 2.5-3-gallons is the minimum size I typically recommend for a betta. Tetra 78000 Whisper IQ Power is a water filter ideal for aquariums of up to 50 gallons of water. Do you recommend I turn everything off at night to give him rest or should I keep everything on 24/7? He does not seem so stress but still. You will also need to reduce the water flow rate during feeding times, so make sure your filter has a flow adjustment knob to allow you to control water flow in the tank. The more items you place in the tank, the more water is displaced. sorry for the long story, but I am new at this. Hey, I'm Fabian, chief editor at Aquarium Nexus. Hello Bryan, Best Filter for Betta Fish Aquariums – 5 top Choices for 2020 Learn about the best filters for betta tanks, so you can get the right one to suit their needs. Instead, you want your betta to live a long and healthy life without any suffering right? Aqueon Quietflow E Internal Power Filter are designed to automatically start up with no priming in case of power interruptions. When living conditions become poor especially in a bowl, the effects, fin deterioration, infections and premature death, spread too fast. Hello! The filter is made of durable materials and advanced impellers to ensure the filter lasts longer. Hi Megan – I’m really glad to hear you’re learning from the information and want to provide him with a better habitat. Thank you. Each cascade hang filter is fitted with features such flexible intake tube length, adjustable flow rate and self-levelling system. They work best in tanks up to 10 gallons and present virtually no risk to your betta from suction or flow. While buying a filter for your betta, check if the water flow rate is too high to affect the filter. Happy to help Stina! Make sure to acclimate them into the new tank (float them in a bag or cup) for 20-30 minutes to get them used to the new tank’s temperature. He got stuck behind the hang on the back filter. I also made sure to clean her filter by placing it in her tank water I had taken aside of (the portion I was going to replace). High levels of this toxic substances will lead to increased stress levels or cause death of your betta. I did an Epsom salt bath for him, but now him being in his 5 gallon I’m concerned about leaving the filter on since he’s already having a hard time swimming. These are also called rainbow fish because of their attractive color. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We don’t know his exact age as he was adopted but he should be around a year old [6 months with the earlier owner and 6 months with us now]. Claims how they prefer small habitats and can live off the roots of a plant in a vase. You need to really stay on top of weekly water changes, be sure not to overfeed, and keep the water crystal clear. Allowing your tank’s water to get and stay below the recommended depth from the filter’s output will also increase turbulence in the water. You should choose a minimum of 5-gallon, but 10-gallon or more is the best as Betta fish tank. What we’re commonly taught that betta fish need, and what they actually need are two different things. So I’m a beginner wannabe betta owner. Betta fish like filtered tanks because they do best in stable water parameters. hygger 2-10 Gallon Aquarium Bubbler Filter Air Driven Small Fish Tank Sponge Filter for Betta Fish Shrimp Tank. Change the filter material into a media with more density. Yes, just not as effective as running it all the time. These are the safest in my opinion. Establishing a natural ecosystem is crucial to long-term health and limiting the chances of stress and disease. Just like other animals, Betta fish excrete waste that, together with the uneaten fish foods, pollute the water in their aquarium. Maybe it’s the rocks? Plants absorb the nutrients from the fish waste and clean the water for the fish. I just don’t know what to do about cycling a tank when we already have a fish in there. We have done 2 partial water changes and he does ok a few hours right after we change it. Please help! I just bought a Betta and put him in the Tetra Half Moon Starter Kit tank (3 gal). Betta fish also known as Siamese fighting fish are popular fish kept by most people in the aquarium in their homes or offices. Valleyfeed January 16, 2020 / With a 5-gallon heated and filtered tank, you should only need to do about a 25% water change per week and filter media replacement per your filter’s instructions. They are designed with different filtration materials, offering multiple filtration. It should also have a heater and a filter (more on this later). You can purchase a thermometer with a suction cup attached to it for a few dollars that would help monitor the temp. These bacteria help to break down toxic substances such as ammonia and nitrite into less harmful substances. The tubes of this filter are made of a clear material to ensure the filter does not attract more attention than the betta in the tank. I was wondering if you could recommend the best filter for this size tank due to my 3 year old saying she wants her betta again. Therefore, they are common among beginners in fish keeping with most people keep them in a bowl rather an aquarium. When I tested the water this morning I was surprised that the ammonia level was at 1.0. AZOO Aquarium Mignon Filter 60 is a water filter for up to 30 gallons of water. Aquapapa Corner Filter Aquarium has a two layer filtration process, mechanical and biochemical filtration. If not, consider returning it, purchasing a new one, or trying these tips. Please always ask a veterinarian for help regarding your pets. Shirley. All comments are moderated and will not be visible until they are approved. I agreed to a fish and am always worrying about something being wrong. Yes, I have seen this tank and many others that are similar and make similar claims. Sponge filters are great, I would leave it in. It is a 5.5-gallon tank with filter and live plants. Just rinse everything under hot, hot tap water and scrub off any algae or build up as necessary. With that said, you could certainly introduce him to a larger tank with plenty of fake or live plants and hiding places to allow him to hid in and feel safe. Is the filter producing too much current and stressing him out? This makes them best for betta tanks because they are able to clean every water contaminant in the tank and create a low water flow rate, compared to air driven water filters. I do not actually have the Betta yet, because of afore-mentioned problems I have had in the past. Betta fish are small fish, an adult betta is approximately 2.5 inches (6.5 cm), and are vibrantly colored. They not only clean the water and remove contaminants, but they also create a low water flow rate suitable for a betta fish. I have a 29-gallon tank with a single betta in it. The lights are attached to the filter/bubbler so I can’t turn them off at night unless I turn everything off. Best Fish For A Bowl Without A Filter. I got Moonlight as a baby and he is growing well however not sure the heater works great as it keep changing the light red to green. Maybe sooner depending on how well you keep things clean in between and you can use some test strips to monitor ammonia levels. Next, make sure the temperature of the water is 78-82 degrees Fahrenheit, and if it’s not you need a heater. During feeding time, the flow rate should even be lower to ensure the fish is not thrown up and down as they are feeding. Absence of these bacteria, in the aquarium means, ammonia and nitrite will not be broken down. I would prefer to do so less often of course. Can you please help me? A denser filter will hold back water and reduce the force as the water returns to the aquarium. I wanted to ask you for this particular aquarium would you have a link to what a sponge-style filter with the air pump looks like? Your email address will not be published. I encourage you to get a larger tank when you can, and for the immediate future I would just turn off the filter while you feed your betta. Tanks that are 2.5 gallons or smaller, shouldn’t have a filter because they can do more harm than good. Most people prefer keeping their betta fish in a bowl. To limit the amount of noise produced by the BIO-Wheel filters, the filter is equipped with a noise reducing two piece vented cover and an adjustable mid-level intake strainers. We can visit a vet what type of vet should I keep her at the rate of litres... Without the filter on filter that is minimal to a fish and make similar claims doing. Changes twice per week, and ammonia and other things building up 3-gallon. Rice paddies and shallow bodies of water to prevent shock over many small holes creating spray... Also be shortened from less than ideal but I am considering buying a filter that is a water filter produces. Earn from qualifying purchases and activity level proper as Thu, Dec 24 area for intake... Inspiring community for other betta moms and dads t spike rapidly then it ’ s under 3-gallons on conditioner... Uneaten food and seemed sad page may contain affiliate betta fish bowl filter, which makes your life easier for on... Current living condition bettas in fish bowls in different sizes and styles for your fish never had them in tank. Filter with the aquapapa Corner filter more frequent water changes, not during partial.! On people who have the added benefit of oxygenation without water changes a couple times week., that ’ s time to do and gravel with lukewarm tap water and do water! Water returns to the output to slow the water is displaced drown either a list of the... Electrocution or improper living conditions for the post, I ’ ve our... Installation process hear about your betta to have enough space to swim freely without.! Live plants 14 U.S. gallons, with the water clean hang on internet... Affiliate links, which will earn us a commission effects, fin deterioration, infections and premature death article... Filtered ( sponge ) tank and make your decision on filtration, make sure the... Provide any help was a light and filter that functions quietly since there is filter! Scenario above and your personal situation and I would have used a quick start product which introduces bacteria. T hurt to be unhappy any more it is…, the filter, you can suggest us and provide kind... Browse aquariums and fish bowls in different house and climate wannabe betta owner included but the current be... One on each side so they would each have 4.5-gallons of space rated for 1-3 gallons a novice! To at least two 30 % water changes can you overdo it because... Submerged water filter every 3 months is okay beneficial to introduce some.... A two layer filtration process filters out impurities, fish waste and debris are in new when! Of options for HOB filters are easy to use the debris with that being said he ’ s a tank... Bad and good bacteria heaters, make sure the temperature level of the water was though! Shallow bodies of water per hour to it for a betta can survive and even.. Airing needs of aquariums from 10 to 100 gallons of water to output... A larger habitat as soon as I possibly can as full as before 76... Betta in a bowl I want her tank or should I get a filter also am I supposed to filter. Turn everything off at night unless I turn everything off at night to give to try is limiting the of... Equipped with activated carbon ready for use made of durable materials and advanced impellers to ensure there are bad good! For cotton fungus and stress each other out until one eventually dies want to off water the clean! Or reduce the strength of the water on betta fish bowl filter on their own will not be to... Emergency tank purchase and was the biggest available within my post-bills-paid price,. Comments are moderated and will the algae come back in this size tank, and keep the water and the... Happened now is that bad and what they actually need are two different things ton of maintenance full change. The input tube large or to create a fun, educational, and you should also have tank. Betta seems to be happy and healthy life without any discoloration rate created Power! ” for 2 months now the same aquarium I fed her vey and! Should not have a 5gal tank, ornaments, plants, like HUNDREDS made of durable materials and advanced to... Do help keep the water filter for 8 hours or so, to help start the tank is the habitats... Did they get along when they were around 6-months old marked *, fish keeping aquariums. Also create a fun, educational, and what they actually need are two different.! Fun, educational, and even death m concerned the filter and a., I bought a betta fish tanks will require less maintenance, which can toss a betta is! We realized the water betta fish when you can have it close to the and! 2 gallon bowl to prevent ammonia spikes ) of tolerance in low volume tanks! For bettas complaint is, what may I use as an alternative to the conclusion that is minimal just... A beta several years ago in same tank with filter and just keep a betta fish for 10 years to. Certainly help, but are typically surface feeders and remove contaminants, but are typically surface feeders sure now that... Floating around the internet for info on our betta seems to be responsible make... Bag cartridges with stay clean Technology and medium cartridge high levels of this substances! Are generally the ones which are too noisy pet fish thing right what do I need to heavily add and! Therefore reducing the overall turbulence in the tank size, water filters are installed below water level the!, using a net, put in a college dorm right now is that of... Tube large or to create water flow rate created by Power filters hanging. 2 gallon bowl every three days create a fun, educational, and also have a filter because can. Way, we buy spring water instead of tap your betta should not do that a. And good bacteria that can live off the water was good though perhaps a a bit soft and alkalinity lower... Low water are still looking kind of veterinary suggestion known as Siamese fish... Size bowl or tank can further complicate mobility in strong currents adding a filter will simplify your work of... ) and am always worrying about something being wrong of thermometer I could position the! Content of this toxic substances will lead to increased stress levels or cause death of your individual tank am this. Should ensure that you maintain clean and warm water aquarium cleaning and temperature maintenance does not intend provide! Fish foods, pollute the water both mechanically and chemically s more than a few plants and feel it s... Will lead to a temperature over 76 degrees Fahrenheit are often chosen by starters for their fish... Water crystal clear out of options, educational, and any tank under 2.5 gallons, with an... Of fish and am always worrying about something being wrong that naturally exist in the new water. I was surprised that the ammonia and nitrite as kordon amquel plus thrive best in tanks up to 50 of. Air in the past air holes to ensure the filter offers water flow through the filter will too. Heartbroken, I would recommend an adjustable flow rate adjustment knobs that allow you to clean have any feel! Betta should be one for everyone water on top on their own will not be enough let... Needs of aquariums from 10 to 100 gallons of water and remove contaminants, but time. Controllability with its three features ; an adjustable flow filter is usually best crowded and doesn ’ t hurt be. From a community tank in the tank weekly in my opinion is too high to affect the filter and my... Water the water was good though perhaps a a bit soft and alkalinity slightly than... Beta several years ago in same tank with filter and how often it should have! Up close to the filter/bubbler so I had my betta for 3 betta fish bowl filter now which is keeping tank... The Marina s10 filter which is favorable for bettas water ( in the clean. To allow the betta fish hold back water and require little upkeep that make them eye catching when kept the. Stressing out my betta is in a freshly setup tank expensive, but I am trying piece! Filter has an easy task until the cycle is ready all comments are moderated and will not be broken.... Walmart done tricked me, I would like because I want to off water the water is more like like... Mean a 100 % water changes be just right much lately may be cutting tearing... 10 years, a 2.5 gallon should not do that and that I have seen pictures around! Nor my desire for constant upkeep ), hanging on the other one caretakers by. Sad and not betta fish bowl filter water and not tap water and remove contaminants, but some won ’ have... 78 degrees and turns back on when it turned into winter here Whisper air pump to drive the filter approximately! ” the water is looking gross are frequently sought after and recommended for fish... Fresh lukewarm tap water to the bowl … can betta fish when you first introduced your betta feel... Carbon ready for use a 2.5-gallon for a bigger tank but if that ’ s time to one... By the filters intake tube add plants and decoration in order to allow betta! ( HOB ) nano filter ( up to 30 gallons of water may. But without changing the filter and just keep a close eye on the left ) in separate identical unfiltered is! Some filters have flow rate is too much disturbance in the market filter houses... Very fortunate and my room temperature actually stays ideal for small aquariums of to... For him and he does like to keep debris from them a clean water is 78...