etMax wrote:
"Dan White" wrote in message
...
Hi. I last posted about what kind of small tank to get for my new
betta. I
ended up with an Eclipse corner 5 tank (5 gal). I also picked up a
25 watt
heater as I was concerned about temp changes even though someone here
said
his 3 gal didn't fluctuate at all. I guess the lfs guy talked me
into it,
plus getting a heater seems the right thing to do anyway.

So, I hook everything up and find out that tank is running at about
83-84
degrees F. It was even this warm in the early morning before any
lights
were on. I have to assume the motor is generating a lot of heat as
the apartment is only about 72. I know bettas like it warm (80?)
but am I getting into a problem with oxygen content and/or stress at
this high a temp? Also, if I want to put any other fish in there, I
will have a problem
unless I get the temp down.

Oh, and the thermometer isn't even on. It was this warm before I put
the
thermometer in.

Thanks for any input,
dwhite


Unfortunately a typical characteristic of these tanks is that the
motor add a few degrees to the water. Easiest solution is sometimes
to place the tank in a cooler spot. Most worrisome is the
temperature difference caused by the lights, as this is cyclical and
more stressful to the fish. Relocating/venting the ballast or venting
the tank might be more trouble than it is worth, ymmv, but imnsho,
small tanks are a PITA.

Guess I should have waited for more feedback before getting this thing all
set up!

I lowered the water level to just beneath the motor and propped the lid open
a bit, so I would think that should drop the temp some. I may just return
the whole thing.

thanks,
dwhite