is a betta the right choice?

[FishQueen]

I stopped by my LFS about a week ago and that's when I saw her - this gorgeous female Halfmoon Betta. I was immediately smitten, but I couldn't take her home right then. Luckily, when I went back a few days later, she was still there waiting for me. Now I have a cycled, planted 5-gallon tank that's been sitting empty since my previous Betta passed away - I'll attach a picture so you can see it. I really want to give this beautiful girl a home, but the price is a bit steep at 35 dollars. What are your thoughts - should I bring her home? The tank is ready for a Betta, and I've already got some ghost shrimp in there to keep her company.

[Clack]

I think she's a real beauty, but personally I'd hold off until any water issues are resolved. Just my two cents, I'm only thinking of what I'd do in your shoes.

[coltin]

Considering your current situation, I'd recommend holding off on adding any new fish until your tanks have been stable for at least a month - no losses or diseases.

[barnicle]

Thirty-five bucks for a betta? That's steep. I get she's pretty, but it's a lot for a single fish.

[infold]

Thirty-five bucks?

[barnicle]

Thirty-five bucks for a betta? That's steep. I get she's pretty, but it's a lot for a single fish.

That price tag's gotta be for royalty or something. Pedigree Betta, maybe, or it was Elton John's pet fish or something, right?

[FishQueen]

I think she's a real beauty, but personally I'd hold off until any water issues are resolved. Just my two cents, I'm only thinking of what I'd do in your shoes.

That's some really wise advice, I appreciate it. I've been testing the tank and the nitrite levels are currently at 0, which they've been for about 5 days now. The other tanks are also looking good, but I'll keep testing to be sure. Thanks again for the advice.

[FishQueen]

It's probably the LFS's top-notch care that makes her so pricey. Their Bettas always look stunning, and this one's color is especially striking - is she a Koi or marble?

[infold]

I'm good with five bucks a fish, that's my limit. I mean, $35 for one? No thanks. If I spent that kind of cash and it kicked the bucket, I'd totally lose it. I saw one locally going for $50 and I was like, seriously? That's just crazy talk.

[FishQueen]

Thirty-five bucks for a betta? That's steep. I get she's pretty, but it's a lot for a single fish.

To be honest, I'm used to paying way less for my Betta fish, but this place only has high-quality ones, top-notch show quality even. Still, 35 dollars is 35 dollars.