How to test water parameters for Bettas

[reelcatch]

What's the best way to test water params for my betta? Got a new tank, 5 gallons, with a sponge filter and heater set to 78. Not sure if the test strips are cutting it.

[otterix]

Test strips are kinda sketchy, ngl. Liquid test kits like API Master Kit are way more accurate. Gonna need to check ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH. How often you doing water changes?

[annaGal]

Liquid tests are indeed more reliable. For a 5-gallon tank, weekly 20% water changes are ideal. Ensure you're using a water conditioner like Seachem Prime to neutralize chlorine. What's your current ammonia reading?

[cloudy9]

Yep, strips are a no-go. API kit's the way. Also, keep an eye on your fish's behavior. If they're gasping or lethargic, something's off. You got any plants in there?

[reelcatch]

Test strips are kinda sketchy, ngl. Liquid test kits like API Master Kit are way more accurate. Gonna need to check ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH. How often you doing water changes?

Thanks, man. I'll grab the API kit. Doing water changes every week, but only like 10%. Should I bump it up?

[otterix]

For sure, 10% is chill but 20%'s better, especially if your params are whack. Plants help too, they suck up nitrates. Anubias or java fern are easy starters.

[annaGal]

Increasing to 20% is advisable. Also, monitor your tap water's pH and hardness. Bettas prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5-7.5). Have you tested your tap water yet?

[cloudy9]

Liquid tests are indeed more reliable. For a 5-gallon tank, weekly 20% water changes are ideal. Ensure you're using a water conditioner like Seachem Prime to neutralize chlorine. What's your current ammonia reading?

Prime's a lifesaver, fr. Also, if your tap water's got high nitrates, might need to look into RO water.

[otterix]

RO's a hassle tho, just get a nitrate remover pad for your filter. Cheaper and easier. How's your betta acting? Any weird vibes?

[annaGal]

Nitrate remover pads are a temporary fix. Long-term, consider more plants or reducing feeding. Overfeeding spikes ammonia. What's your feeding routine like?