Nitrate levels in Betta tanks

[lintox]

Agree with all the plant suggestions. My betta loves resting on the roots of water lettuce, and nitrates stay low.

[Fuegoz]

How often do you gravel vac? Detritus buildup can sneakily raise nitrates. I do a light vac every water change.

[river9]

Mine's at 15 ppm with weekly changes. Not stressing it since the fish is active and colorful. Maybe some bettas just tolerate higher levels?

[bigtide]

Try feeding frozen instead of flakes. Less filler, less waste. My nitrates dropped when I switched.

[bajil]

If you're not already, use a liquid test kit. Strips can be way off. I thought mine was 20 ppm, but it was actually 40.