Optimum tank size for betta

[michael999]

Im considering DIYing a small tank from perspex, for a betta, so im curious what is the optimum size for them. Not just the volume, but also dimentions.

I dont want a big tank, but i dont want it to small, so can anyone help me out.

What will make the little fella happy.

 

[phOOey]

there is no 'optimum' size tank for a betta, but in general a good tank for a betta would be a 5 - 10g tank with just a betta and maybe some shrimp or small cories.

 

[Iggy]

Hi michael999,

Basically, think of a shallow marsh. The following is an excellent picture of where a wild betta would live.
http://www.myfishtank.net/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=23693

Bettas like surface space, so a wider, deeper, flatter tank would be the best setup. Deep tanks are wasted on bettas.

What I suggest is about a 20 or 16" wide x 12" deep x 10" tall tank (approx US 8.3gal) Basically, a short 10 gallon.

Design considerations:
- Footprint size: Make it as wide and deep as you can fit in your space/stand.
- Height: Make sure its just tall enough for your filter and heating system.
- Filter Size: I would use an ELITE Mini internal filter on a low setting. It's only about 4" tall and would keep the water moving just enough not ot bother the betta.
- Heater: A 50w submersible on it's side would be nice.
- Substrate: Consider using sand, it looks much better than gravel.
- Decoration & Plants: Driftwood covered in java-moss and Javafern for height (or dwarf swords) You might consider letting the driftwood come up out of the water a little and use some floating plants, like frogbit or duckweed.

 

[michael999]

wow thanks Iggy.

my current glass tank is only 3gallon(see tag), and i have the elite mini filter.

so ill jsut give that to the betta when the new tank comes.