My 23-gallon wild betta and rasbora blackwater tank

[eleNt]

I'm setting up a Fluval Vista/Curve 87 litre tank for my home, with plans for a blackwater setup for a single male wild betta and either lambchop or neon green rasboras, all native to Thailand. I'm aiming for a 'still creek blackwater habitat' biotope, inspired by Thailand. I've been referencing Frank's Bettas for guidance on creating this habitat. The tank's available at Petbarn, but I'm concerned about the reliability of the lights and filter – some customers have reported issues with them shutting down after a few weeks.

I've been wanting this tank for ages, and I'm eager to recreate the natural habitat of these fish, rather than going for a community tank like my existing 10 gallon. Unfortunately, my parents are putting the brakes on until I sort out my eyelashes – I've had a habit of pulling out my top lashes for years, and they're not budging until I've grown them back. It's frustrating, as I've been dreaming of this tank and biotope for so long.

[coltin]

I'd advise against curved glass tanks, they're a real hassle when it comes to calculating water volume for treatment. A rectangular aquarium might not be the most exciting choice, but trust me, it's the way to go - cheaper and easier overall.

What's the specific species of Betta you're looking at? I've got some experience with wild-caught ones, and I've learned that keeping them in a single-species tank is the way to go. Not only does it minimize the risk of disease, but it also gives them the best shot at breeding. Considering their endangered status, I think it's our responsibility as keepers to prioritize breeding and conservation.

[eleNt]

I'd advise against curved glass tanks, they're a real hassle when it comes to calculating water volume for treatment. A rectangular aquarium might not be the most exciting choice, but trust me, it's the way to go - cheaper and easier overall.

What's the specific species of Betta you're looking at? I've got some experience with wild-caught ones, and I've learned that keeping them in a single-species tank is the way to go. Not only does it minimize the risk of disease, but it also gives them the best shot at breeding. Considering their endangered status, I think it's our responsibility as keepers to prioritize breeding and conservation.

I understand where you're coming from, coltin, but I've already got a rectangular tank at home and I'm eager to try something different. A biotope setup in a 23 gallon Fluval tank is what I'm aiming for, specifically a creek or lake environment with gentle water movement, inspired by the waters of Thailand. I've set my heart on keeping a single male Betta mahachaiensis, a species native to the Bangkok area that was only discovered around 11 years ago. As it stands, the IUCN Red List hasn't assessed their conservation status yet.

In terms of tankmates, I've come across some sources, including the Wild Betta Blog, that suggest certain species can coexist with wild bettas. Small rasboras, such as lambchops and Microdevario kubotai, seem like suitable options.