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How to introduce a Betta to a new tank
Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2025 6:30 am
by lanpen
I'm setting up a new 10-gallon tank for my betta and want to make sure I do it right. What's the best way to acclimate them without stressing them out? I've got a sponge filter, heater set to 78°F, and some live plants.
Re: How to introduce a Betta to a new tank
Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2025 8:27 am
by RivenOil
Drip acclimation is your best bet. Float the bag for 15 mins to temp match, then use airline tubing to slowly add tank water over 30-45 mins. Test the bag water for ammonia before adding, just in case. Also, dim the lights for the first day to reduce stress.
Re: How to introduce a Betta to a new tank
Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2025 9:07 am
by hikaru
Yep, drip is the way to go. I've messed with the float method before and my fish always seemed sketchy after. Gotta keep it chill, ya know? Also, don't feed them for the first 24 hours, let 'em settle in.
Re: How to introduce a Betta to a new tank
Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2025 9:17 am
by coppertown
RivenOil wrote: ↑Sun Jun 22, 2025 8:27 am
Drip acclimation is your best bet. Float the bag for 15 mins to temp match, then use airline tubing to slowly add tank water over 30-45 mins. Test the bag water for ammonia before adding, just in case. Also, dim the lights for the first day to reduce stress.
This is solid advice. I'd add that you should check the pH of the bag water too. Big swings can freak 'em out.
Re: How to introduce a Betta to a new tank
Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2025 9:48 am
by lilynx
I've never done drip acclimation before. Is it really that much better than floating? My betta seemed fine last time I just floated the bag for 20 minutes.
Re: How to introduce a Betta to a new tank
Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2025 10:47 am
by mirelow
Floating works in a pinch, but drip is way gentler. Think of it like jumping into a cold pool vs. easing in. Also, if your fish is already stressed from transport, the slower the better. What kind of plants do you have in there?
Re: How to introduce a Betta to a new tank
Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2025 11:26 am
by sunsetra
Drip is the move, no doubt. I've seen too many bettas get shocky from quick changes. Also, make sure your tank's cycled, obvs. Nothing worse than adding a fish to a fresh tank with no bacteria. You got a test kit?
Re: How to introduce a Betta to a new tank
Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2025 12:24 pm
by masterd
I just plopped mine in and he was fine. Maybe I got lucky? But I'll try the drip thing next time. Sounds fancy.
Re: How to introduce a Betta to a new tank
Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2025 1:49 pm
by lanpen
Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll try the drip method and make sure the water params are good before adding him. Appreciate the help!
Re: How to introduce a Betta to a new tank
Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2025 3:00 pm
by RivenOil
lanpen wrote: ↑Sun Jun 22, 2025 1:49 pm
Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll try the drip method and make sure the water params are good before adding him. Appreciate the help!
No problem. Let us know how it goes. Also, keep an eye on the filter flow. Bettas hate strong currents.