How to set up a tank? What do I put in it?

[babygal827]

Well, my poor Betta had a 1/2 Gallon bowl up until now. Poor guy.
I'm on a 16 year old's budget, that's why my baby was in that bowl for 3 weeks.

I had been looking at tanks and found they were SO EXPENSIVE. I thought there was no hope and he was going to have to stay in that little bowl until Christmas when I could ask for a tank for a gift, but then, I was in my attic and found that my sister had put two 10 gallon tanks up there, BRAND NEW! She has lizards, and had bought the tanks for them, but didn't end up needing them.

So, now I have 1 Male Betta... and a 10 gallon tank. I have a few questions if yall don't mind helping me out

First off, is 10 gallons too big for Tequilla (that's his name lol)? I don't have any dividers. Should I buy other fish to keep him company? If so, what type of fish should I get? (Keep in mind, 16 year old budget, lol).

Also, I hear so much about filters and pumps and ''cycling''. What is all this and what do I absolutly need to get and use? Also, do I need a heater? My room has to be at a constant 78 Degrees as is, so temperature doesn't really change often.

If there's anything else I need to know, I'd appreciate it so much if you could help me out. I'm still really new at this whole Betta thing, but I'm already so addicted. Thanks in advance for any help

Also, one more question, sorry.
I want to take a pic of my fish, will the flash hurt his eyes or anything?
Sorry if that's a stupid question, I just don't want to do anything to harm him.

Thanks!

 

[GirlinWayside]

Im not a betta expert by no means, but I just wanted to say Im really glad you found those tanks! Im sure someone will answer all your questions soon. Good Luck!

 

[Phinny]

Hey there.

I'm a little new at this but I'll try answer some of your questions.

For one I do all my research online for compatibility of other fish. I've found a website www.liveaquaria.com and you can find a chart in there and some fast facts about the different kinds of fish.

I'm really glad to hear that you've got a bigger tank. I'm sure your betta will be extra happy now. I would say, from my understanding, that he should be fine in a 10 gallon.

As far as filters and all that other stuff goes. I'd recommend one. Since your on a low budget an underground filtration system. They are relatively cheap. I think I got my for $13 CAN at WalMart, I'm not to impressed with the WalMart stuff and I'd probably go to a pet store if I had to do it again though. If you do decided to get that, keep in mind that Betta's don't like a lot of water movement, so I'd keep the filter on low to moderate.

I hope that helps a little bit.

Good Luck

 

[Naughtygirlrlw]

The flash might p**s him off but it will not hurt his eyes. (physically) I take pictures of my fish all the time...Some HATE it while other ones seem to try and 'pose' for me. "Look at me mom, look at me!" Crazy fish!