Newbie Betta Owner

Hi,

I'm not new to fish-keeping (I've got a 200l community tank.) But I am new to Bettas. I picked up this bowl in the post-Chrimbo sales at Heals and thought it would make a good home. Not 100% on what the water capcity is but the bowl is 25cm in diameter. (I'm guessing about 3 gallons.)

Anyway, I put Barney in there yesterday with a fern and gravel and all seems well. I plan to do a 50% water change in a couple of days time.

I'm a little concerned that water temp sits between 70-71. Is this going to be ok for him? I noticed on the pinned article that they can tolerate down to 68 but I want to make sure he's happy.

TT.

Well, it'll be okay. Bettas are generally happier at higher temperatures, but the majority of the people on this forum keep bowls at room temperature, which tends to hover around 71-74F. My betta has a heater at 84, and he's happy as a clam. I wouldn't worry about it too much, so long as it's consistant. That's the big bit, keeping the temperature from fluctuating. I'd say that's even the primary function of a heater -- not to heat, but to maintain the temperature. I kept my betta at room temp for a year, and he was fine. He's just greatful for being warmer, is all.

Barney should be fine in that temp.

Nice fish bowl

Well, he will survive at the temp and probably is already used to that temp if you purchased him locally. 21 C is colder than I would like to keep any betta. Ideally, betta's should be kept at a water between 24-30 C's (75-86 F)

Thanks to all for that. I'll keep an eye on him.

Theoretcially I coud thread one of those small 25w heaters through the top of the bowl if it comes to it.

How will I know if he's not chuffed with the water temp? Does he just sit still and not move much? Off his food? Fin rot? Or all of the above?

TT.