How to acclimate a new Betta to the tank

[Mango]

Just got a new betta and wanna make sure I'm doing this right. I've got a 5-gallon tank with a sponge filter, heater set to 78, and some live plants. How long should I float the bag before adding them in?

[reeker0]

Floating the bag for 15-20 minutes is a good start, but you gotta drip acclimate too. Get some airline tubing, tie a loose knot to control the flow, and let tank water slowly mix with the bag water over 30-40 minutes. Helps avoid shock from pH or temp swings.

[nEmo95]

yo, don't rush it. my last dude got stressed 'cause I dumped him in too fast. now I float for like 30 mins, then drip for another 30. also, dim the lights, they hate bright stuff when they're new.

[joystic]

What if the bag water is dirty? Should I still drip acclimate?

[reeker0]

What if the bag water is dirty? Should I still drip acclimate?

Yep, even if it's sketchy. Use a net to transfer them after dripping, don't pour the bag water into your tank. Dirty water can mess with your cycle.

[Mango]

Thanks, everyone! Gonna try the drip method this time. My last betta seemed off for days, probably 'cause I skipped that step.

[nEmo95]

for real, patience is key. also, feed 'em light the first day, they might not eat right away. mine ignored food for like 2 days, then went ham on the pellets.

[reeker0]

for real, patience is key. also, feed 'em light the first day, they might not eat right away. mine ignored food for like 2 days, then went ham on the pellets.

Exactly. Their metabolism slows during transport. Skip day one, offer a tiny bit day two, then normal feeding by day three.

[joystic]

How do you know if they're stressed after adding them?

[nEmo95]

if they're glass surfing, hiding nonstop, or clamping their fins, it's a bad vibe. mine chilled out after a week, just give 'em time and keep the water clean.