Betta Tank

[nashnut]

I just picked up a 2 gallon Betta tank. Do you need to cycle a Betta tank the same as you would a larger 20 gallon tank? Reasoning would say no since the tank would require fairly frequent water changes. I would think it would just require chlorine removal.

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[nashnut]

Also I'm wondering if I could use bottled water rather than tap water
for the tank.

Thanks again.

 

[clutterydrawer]

Is the tank filtered?

 

[nashnut]

I didn't think I would use a filter, just do water changes and possibly a vac on the gravel. I need to check a store somewhere to see what's available.

 

[appleblossom]

hi nashnut

there are many people who would say that cycling a small tank is impossible, but others who argue that cycling would be the same in a small tank as a much larger tank.

If you are planning on keeping a betta alone, many people simply do a large water change every week (around 70%) to keep the ammonia levels low, and leave the tank uncycled.

If you do decide to use a filter, for a tank that size a simple sponge filter would be adequate powered by a small air pump. If you arent in a rush and have an established tank, you can remove the sponge from the filter, and submerse it in your established tank by the gravel or near the current filter to build up a bacteria colony for your betta (leave the sponge in place for about 3 weeks) before replacing it on the original filter stand and using it in your betta tank.

An alternative would be to use some gravel from an established tank to give the betta tank a headstart in building up its own bacteria colony.

whatever you decide to try, cycling or not, always use your dechlorinator as mentioned in your first post.

I'm not sure about using bottled water having never done it myself.

 

[nashnut]

I think I'll end up doing the frequent water changes and hopefully establish a bacteria colony several months down the line which I can then use to seed a 20 gallon tank when I move.

I've bred bettas before, but all this cycling business with the tanks is an entire new ballgame with me. Just set up a tank, waited a day and then tossed in the fish. Never had any problems. Even the types of filters are new to me.

I did check out the small sponge filter for a small tank. If it doesn't cause too much of a disturbance for the betta I'll give it a try.

Thanks... all suggestions welcomed.

 

[mwm]

I took water from my 20g