Who Gives A Fish Forums

How often do y'all check your betta's health? I've got a 5 gallon with a sponge filter, heater set at 78, and do weekly water changes. Just wanna make sure I'm not missing anything sketchy.

I check mine daily, just a quick look to see if they're acting normal. Tank's got some java fern and a few shrimp, seems to keep things chill.

Daily visual checks are good, but you should also test water params weekly. Ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH. If anything's off, it's gonna mess with their health.

Ridgely wrote: ↑Sun Aug 10, 2025 3:28 am Daily visual checks are good, but you should also test water params weekly. Ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH. If anything's off, it's gonna mess with their health.

Yep, totally agree. I use the API master kit, works like a charm.

I kinda slack on testing, ngl. But my boy's in a 10 gallon with sand substrate and lots of plants. He's always flaring at his reflection, so I figure he's good.

Lol, mine does the same thing. But yeah, weekly checks are the way to go. I also keep an eye on his fins for any tears or weird vibes.

I test every two weeks, but my tank's heavily planted with a canister filter. Parameters stay stable, so I don't stress too much.

FinleyOne wrote: ↑Sun Aug 10, 2025 8:26 am I test every two weeks, but my tank's heavily planted with a canister filter. Parameters stay stable, so I don't stress too much.

That's fair, but beginners should probably stick to weekly. Better safe than sorry.

I've got a 20 gallon community tank with my betta. He's got some neon tetra buddies, and I check everyone's health daily. So far, so good!

Daily visual checks, weekly water tests, and monthly deep cleans. My setup's got a HOB filter, driftwood, and live plants. Never had any major issues.