How to Cycle a Tank for a Betta

Betta fish are fun and easy fish to keep in a small aquarium or bowl. Unlike most fish, they do not need circulating water or water filtration, although you can add these if you have an aquarium. Cycling a tank is a process that lets beneficial bacteria build up to remove harmful chemicals from the water, such as ammonia and nitrite. Nitrate will still build up slowly so water changes should be performed routinely.

Things You'll Need

Bowl or small aquarium
Tap water
Dechlorinator solution
Cup of old aquarium water
Betta fish food
Betta fish

Instructions

- 1
  Remove chlorine from the water using dechlorinator solution. These solutions are available from pet stores that sell fish. Follow the directions on the bottle for how much of the liquid to add to the water.
- 2
  Add about 1 cup of old aquarium water. This water should be from a tank that is already established with fish (bettas or other types of freshwater fish). This will add the bacteria you need. Do not add water from a saltwater tank.
- 3
  Add a few pellets of betta food. This food will give the bacteria something to eat so they can multiply in the water.
- 4
  Wait about two weeks for the bacteria to build up.
- 5
  Change about two-thirds of the water in the tank with freshly dechlorinated tap water. This will reduce the level of nitrates so the fish will stay healthy.
- 6
  Acclimate your fish. Betta fish usually come in small bowls or bags. When you bring the fish home, pour out about 1/4 cup of the water in the bowl or bag and add the same amount from your cycled tank. This will help the fish acclimate to the temperature and pH of your tank. Repeat this process about four times, waiting for 10 minutes between each water change.
- 7
  Add your fish. Add the fish to your tank or bowl. If you have a light over the tank, leave it off for one full day so the fish has time to adjust to the new conditions. Your fish is now at home!