Suzie-Q wrote:
Following the advice I got from one or two of you, I have
moved my Betta (Bartholomew) into a 2.5 gallon tank. He
seems to like it!

This new tank has a filter (the other didn't). It doesn't
have an air pump. I'm wondering if I can put something like
ghost shrimp into the tank, or an algae eater, if the tank
doesn't have an air pump. Will there be an accumulation of
algae that's enough to feed an algae eater?

Advice?

A filter usually moves water around enough for decent oxygen exchange,
so you can put other critters in the tank. Remember, though, that
Bartholomew might be aggressive towards them, or regard them as food.
Also, they may need heat in the winter.

I don't know of any algae eaters other than Otocinclus that will not
eventually outgrow a 2.5 gallon tank. Otocinclus are delicate, don't
always like algae wafers, and prefer to live in groups. If your tank
isn't brightly lit or in indirect sun, you're not likely to be able to
feed one for long. I've been having trouble with otos in my planted 2
gallon, and I've got a 14W spiral CF over it. :-(

Ghost shrimp are fine once your filter is completely cycled. They are
VERY intolerant of ammonia, so test your water before you get them.
Bettas may eat small ghost shrimp, but the large ones can do OK.

--
Elaine T __
http://eethomp.com/fish.html '__
rec.aquaria.* FAQ http://faq.thekrib.com