Who Gives A Fish Forums

Long tanks are definitely better for bettas. They need horizontal space to swim, not vertical. A 5-gallon long tank is ideal, with plenty of plants and hiding spots. Tall tanks can stress them out because they're surface breathers.

I'm actually in the process of setting up my own tank, and I'm planning to let the pH rise to alkaline levels before adding any fish. In the meantime, I'm on the hunt for some great backgrounds, rocks, and shells to create a natural environment.