(Gregory_Asr) wrote:

a. Should I get the two 2 gallon drum bowls, or one 2 gallon drum bowl
and a 5 1/2 gallon tank? Since we're dealing with a betta, would there
be a significant difference between a 2 gallon drum bowl and a 5 1/2
gallon tank?

While it's true that bettas don't require much tank volume to survive,
they will thrive if given a bit more space. Even so, they don't need a
lot. 2 gallons is a decent size for a betta - I'm keeping one quite
happily in a one gallon glass jar. If you really want to splurge, a
three gallon Eclipse tank is ideal.

You don't need two different bowls - it will stress the fish to be
moved from one to the other when you're cleaning the tank. Better to
just leave him in a single tank while you do water changes.

b. What would the water changes be like for a 2 gallon drum bowl and a
5 1/2 gallon tank? And how long would the water take to reach room
temperature with this bowl and this tank?
d. Do I only need to dechlorinate the water or is there more to do?

If you don't have any filtration (and most betta tanks don't) then
you'll need to do a 25-50% water change each week. Yes, do use a
dechlorinator! There are a number of products out there; any will be
fine.

Each week when you do your water change, just refill a one gallon jug
with tap water, put in dechlorinator, and store the jug under a
cupboard or something. When you're ready to do a water change next
week, the water will be at room temperature and ready to use.

b. Is gravel a necessity?

No. However, over time you want to build up a bacteria population, and
gravel provides more surface area for the bacteria to live on. Besides
which, it looks nicer to you, which is part of the reason for setting
up a tank in the first place.

c. Is a plant a necessity? Plastic or real?

Again, not necessary, but nice looking. And I'm of the opinion that a
decorated tank is better for the fish than an undecorated one. Note
recent studies of lab mice that were healthier when they lived in
interesting environments.

But don't to live plants. They require special efforts and some trial
and error. No point aggravating yourself starting out.

e. When and what should I feed this betta?

Bettas are carnivores, but will eat just about anything. I give mine a
varied diet, including 'Betta bits', flake, dried bloodworms, and
occasionally frozen brine shrimp.

2 or 3 betta bits or the equivalent per day is plenty.

f. Male or female? Can two females safely live together in a 2 gallon
drum bowl?

Two females should get along fine. A male would be prettier.


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