Filter's Current

[Confused]

Hi buddies,
• I am confused about the filter current for a 5 gallons for a single male Betta. I keep reading in postings that Bettas prefer still water and any current could distress it. The issue is how strong a current would distress it? Which is the best filter to buy? I was planning to buy a sponge filter, but then that too has a flow. Also, the sponge filter gives off oxygen bubbles. Would this distress the Betta?
• Also, for how long should I keep the filter on in a day?
• Or is it advisable to buy a smaller tank which can function without a filter? How small a tank can function without a filter for a single Betta?
Sorry for asking so much but what to do, the more I read on this forum the more confused I get. (True to my name)

 

[Glod]

I'd suggest getting a filter rated for the tank size you have and adding a spray bar so the flow is distributed the length of the tank. A sponge filter should be ok too.

A filter helps maintain your water quality, making things a bit more pleasant for your fish so it's definitely worth getting imho.

Like everything else, some bettas like a little bit of current to play in, others get really stressed as their long fins make swimming harder

 

[summerdragon]

I have a betta that lives in my community tank and I used to worry about the current as well but as it turns out he LOVES to play in both the bubble wall and right in front of the outtake of my canister filter.... He likes to "surf" the current just as much as my hyperactive danios do.... But the thing with bettas is every one has a totally unique personality, I have owned a few now, and no two where alike, so while my current betta may love to play my next might hate it.... But as bettas are very adaptable I suspect he will be all right.....

 

[fishwatcher]

I agree with above. They really are all different. The best thing to do will be to get it all up and running and see how he reacts. If he is stressed by it you'll know by how he acts, and can adjust things accordingly.
HTH!