Betta tank lighting requirements

[furify]

What's the best lighting setup for a 10-gallon betta tank? I've got a basic LED strip but worried it's too bright. They seem to hide a lot when it's on.

[freshly]

Yo, if your fish are hiding, that's a sign it's too intense. Bettas prefer dimmer light, like what you'd get under floating plants or a low-wattage LED. I run mine at 50% brightness for 8 hours, and my dude chills near the surface all day.

[kaylornix]

Agreed. I use a programmable LED with a sunrise/sunset feature. It mimics natural light cycles, and my betta's colors have improved. Just avoid direct sunlight or super bright whites—they'll wash out their vibrancy.

[reefmaster]

Yo, if your fish are hiding, that's a sign it's too intense. Bettas prefer dimmer light, like what you'd get under floating plants or a low-wattage LED. I run mine at 50% brightness for 8 hours, and my dude chills near the surface all day.

Exactly this. Also, if you've got live plants, aim for 6500K color temp. It's soft enough for the fish but keeps plants healthy.

[windy]

Mine's in a 5-gallon with a cheap clip-on LED. No issues, but I only run it 6 hours. They don't need much. Just enough to see their food and not trip over decor.

[furify]

Thanks, all. Gonna dial back the brightness and add some floaters. Appreciate the tips!

[Ridgeborn]

If you're gonna mess with floaters, duckweed or salvinia work great. They diffuse light naturally. Just don't let 'em take over—your betta still needs surface access.

[sunsetfox]

Seconding the sunrise/sunset feature! My guy flares less since I switched. It's like he's got a routine now. Also, red or blue LEDs at night look cool without stressing them.

[crafty]

I've got a 20-gallon community tank with a betta. The light's brighter for the plants, but I stacked driftwood to create shaded spots. He hangs out there when he's done showing off.

[tidesoul]

Keep it simple. No fancy tech needed. My betta's in a jar with a desk lamp nearby. He's fine. Just don't blast 'em like a coral reef.