How to maintain a Betta tank without a filter

[FunFish]

I've been thinking about setting up a tank without a filter for my betta. Anyone have tips on how to keep the water clean and stable? I'm worried about ammonia spikes.

[bakerly]

Yep, you gotta be extra careful with water changes. I do 25% twice a week in my 5-gallon. Live plants like java fern and anubias help a ton, they suck up nitrates. Also, don't overfeed, that's key.

[franzi]

How often do you test the water? I'm new to this and wanna make sure I don't mess up.

[flakey]

Yep, you gotta be extra careful with water changes. I do 25% twice a week in my 5-gallon. Live plants like java fern and anubias help a ton, they suck up nitrates. Also, don't overfeed, that's key.

I second the plants. I also use floating plants like duckweed, they're great for shading and keeping the water clean.

[Oceania]

I've had success with a sponge filter, but if you're going filterless, just be ready to test the water every other day. Ammonia can creep up fast, especially in smaller tanks.

[ribstone]

Don't forget about substrate! A deep sand bed can host beneficial bacteria. I use pool filter sand, it's cheap and works great.

[firelily]

I've been running a 10-gallon filterless for months. The trick is to understock and overplant. My betta's happy as can be, and the water stays crystal clear.

[taylord]

I've had success with a sponge filter, but if you're going filterless, just be ready to test the water every other day. Ammonia can creep up fast, especially in smaller tanks.

That's solid advice. I'd also recommend using Seachem Prime to detoxify ammonia between water changes.

[Bramble]

Honestly, it's a bit sketchy without a filter, but if you're committed, go for it. Just keep an eye on your fish for signs of stress. Gills flaring or lethargy means something's off.

[willix]

What about water flow? Bettas don't like strong currents, but without a filter, how do you keep the water moving?