Betta Fish and Vases

Male bettas are known for their huge, fanlike tails and striking colors. Many people keep bettas in vases or other ornamental containers to showcase the fish's beauty. However, these containers can cause problems for bettas. It is important to take proper care of your bettas by giving them a good home.

  1. Expert Opinion

    • Most experts agree that while bettas can be kept in small tanks or vases, they are much happier and healthier in larger containers. According to Fish Lore, "To get the most beautiful colors and optimal health for your fish, they will do better in a 10 gallon or larger tank with a heater that can maintain a constant temperature in the aquarium." Fish Lore recommends a minimum tank size of five gallons for a truly content betta. Whatever size tank you use, do not place two male bettas together as they will fight to the death.

    Water

    • Whether you choose to keep bettas in a vase or in a larger tank, the water quality and temperature must be considered. If using tap water, let it stand for 24 hours to reach room temperature. If you have hard water, purchasing a water treatment kit to get rid of contaminants may be a good idea. Bettas like water with a neutral pH between 6.5 and 7.5. A water test kit can help you to determine the tank's pH. Water between 70 and 85 degrees is best. Temperature and pH are both easier to regulate in larger tanks. A filter can help keep the water clean, but should not be used with tanks smaller than five gallons.

    Gravel and Plants

    • Bettas love to rest on the leaves of plants, while gravel can make the vase, bowl or tank more attractive. Buy aquarium gravel or gems rather than using outdoor rocks that may carry bacteria and dirt into your tank. Rinse the gravel in a bucket, changing the water until the water in the bucket remains clear. Purchase live or artificial plants from your local pet store.

    Acclimating New Bettas

    • Bettas need to be gradually acclimated to new environments. Place the bag or plastic container in which your betta arrives in the new fish bowl, vase or aquarium to help the fish adjust to the temperature. After 10 minutes or so, cut the bag open and add a bit of the new tank's water. Keep the bag floating for another 30 minutes, gradually adding water from the new tank until the bag is filled with this water. After 30 minutes, remove the bag and let the betta swim freely.

    Cleaning the Tank

    • If you keepi your betta in a small bowl or vase that is larger than one gallon but does not have a filter, change one quarter of the water once a week. If the bowl is smaller than one gallon, change all of the water three to seven times a week. Remove the betta from the tank before changing the water and place him in a glass full of water from the old tank or vase. Drain the tank, bowl or vase and wipe the sides with a clean cloth to remove any scum. Rinse out the gravel and rinse the tank carefully if you used soap or other cleaners. Refill the tank, treat the water with water conditioner as usual and place the betta back in the water.