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betta care checklist for beginners
Posted: Tue May 27, 2025 4:31 pm
by Ryzzora
Just got my first betta and wanna make sure I'm doing everything right. What's the absolute must-have checklist for beginners? Got a 5-gallon tank, heater, and filter, but not sure about water changes or feeding.
Re: betta care checklist for beginners
Posted: Tue May 27, 2025 5:34 pm
by 3monkeys
You're off to a solid start with the tank size and equipment. For water changes, aim for 25% weekly, using a gravel vacuum to clean the substrate. Test your water regularly for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. Feed high-quality pellets, 2-3 a day, and skip the flakes. Overfeeding is a common mistake.
Re: betta care checklist for beginners
Posted: Tue May 27, 2025 6:11 pm
by cordee
3monkeys wrote: ↑Tue May 27, 2025 5:34 pm
You're off to a solid start with the tank size and equipment. For water changes, aim for 25% weekly, using a gravel vacuum to clean the substrate. Test your water regularly for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. Feed high-quality pellets, 2-3 a day, and skip the flakes. Overfeeding is a common mistake.
Absolutely agree with this. Also, avoid tap water without conditioner, and keep the tank away from drafts or direct sunlight. Bettas thrive in stable conditions.
Re: betta care checklist for beginners
Posted: Tue May 27, 2025 7:18 pm
by Kaido
Don't forget about enrichment! They love plants, real or silk, and a hiding spot or two. Mine goes nuts for floating logs. Just make sure nothing has sharp edges that could tear their fins.
Re: betta care checklist for beginners
Posted: Tue May 27, 2025 8:01 pm
by julian
Yo, same boat here. How often do y'all test the water? I've been doing it weekly but my buddy says it's overkill. Also, what's the deal with salt? Heard mixed things.
Re: betta care checklist for beginners
Posted: Tue May 27, 2025 8:55 pm
by FlynnB
julian wrote: ↑Tue May 27, 2025 8:01 pm
Yo, same boat here. How often do y'all test the water? I've been doing it weekly but my buddy says it's overkill. Also, what's the deal with salt? Heard mixed things.
Weekly testing isn't overkill, especially in a new tank. Once it's cycled, you can ease up a bit. Salt's tricky—some use it for minor fin issues, but it's not a cure-all. Best to research before adding anything.
Re: betta care checklist for beginners
Posted: Tue May 27, 2025 10:46 pm
by olanko
I'm new too, but my fish seems happy. How do you know if they're stressed? Mine just kinda chills near the bottom sometimes.
Re: betta care checklist for beginners
Posted: Wed May 28, 2025 12:40 am
by Astral9
olanko wrote: ↑Tue May 27, 2025 10:46 pm
I'm new too, but my fish seems happy. How do you know if they're stressed? Mine just kinda chills near the bottom sometimes.
Bottom-sitting can be a red flag. Check your water params first—ammonia or nitrite spikes can cause stress. Also, look for clamped fins, loss of color, or rapid gill movement. If everything's good, they might just be lazy!
Re: betta care checklist for beginners
Posted: Wed May 28, 2025 1:17 am
by Ryzzora
Thanks for all the tips, everyone. Gonna grab a test kit and some plants this weekend. Appreciate the help!
Re: betta care checklist for beginners
Posted: Wed May 28, 2025 2:59 am
by pearly
What about tankmates? Heard they can be solo or with others, but not sure what's safe.