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Betta tank size recommendations
Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 7:45 am
by lunarix
What's the smallest tank size you'd recommend for a single betta? I've seen everything from 2.5 gallons to 10 gallons suggested, but I'm not sure what's actually best for their health and happiness.
Re: Betta tank size recommendations
Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 9:16 am
by Nutmegs
Honestly, anything under 5 gallons is sketchy. They need space to swim and explore, and smaller tanks make it harder to keep water params stable. I've kept mine in a 10 gallon, and they're way more active than in the 3 gallon I tried initially.
Re: Betta tank size recommendations
Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 10:56 am
by RhythmKing
Yep, bigger is always better. My guy's in a 7.5 gallon, and he's thriving. Plus, it's easier to maintain, less frequent water changes, and you can add some cool plants or tankmates like shrimp.
Re: Betta tank size recommendations
Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 11:02 am
by Vitaly
Nutmegs wrote: ↑Thu May 29, 2025 9:16 am
Honestly, anything under 5 gallons is sketchy. They need space to swim and explore, and smaller tanks make it harder to keep water params stable. I've kept mine in a 10 gallon, and they're way more active than in the 3 gallon I tried initially.
Totally agree! I switched from a 2.5 to a 5 gallon, and the difference in behavior was night and day. They're so much happier with more room.
Re: Betta tank size recommendations
Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 11:24 am
by Ravenox9
I've got mine in a 20 gallon community tank, and he's the king of the castle. But if you're going solo, 5 gallons is the bare minimum. Anything less is just cruel, imo.
Re: Betta tank size recommendations
Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 1:24 pm
by kokomo
Gonna chime in here, 5 gallons is the sweet spot. It's big enough for them to chill but not so huge that it's overwhelming. Plus, you can get creative with the scape. My betta loves all the hiding spots I've added.
Re: Betta tank size recommendations
Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 1:38 pm
by SunnySky
I started with a 3 gallon, but after reading up, I upgraded to a 6 gallon. The difference in water quality alone was worth it. Less ammonia spikes, and my fish is way more vibrant.
Re: Betta tank size recommendations
Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 2:45 pm
by lunarix
Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll go with a 5 gallon then. Any tips on filters or heaters for that size?
Re: Betta tank size recommendations
Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 3:26 pm
by finnleye
lunarix wrote: ↑Thu May 29, 2025 2:45 pm
Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll go with a 5 gallon then. Any tips on filters or heaters for that size?
For a 5 gallon, a small sponge filter works great. It's gentle enough for their fins, and you can pair it with a 25 watt heater. I've had no issues with this setup.
Re: Betta tank size recommendations
Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 4:54 pm
by maxxy
I'd avoid hang-on-back filters for small tanks. They create too much current. Sponge filters are the way to go, and they're cheap too. Heater-wise, go for adjustable ones, not preset.