Need help in setting up a Betta tank with live plants?

Question

I've been visiting PETCO and other aquarium stores for a few weeks now and very confused in getting a aquarium. I have few limitations in selecting

1. I am not sure how long I'll stay in US (may be 1 and half years)...but i really need a fish tank though!

2. I'm in first floor....people say that this would be a problem. However I am planning to have 5 Gallon or 10 if 5 is not suitable for my requirement

3. Cost...as I'm not sure of my stay, i don't want to invest much on the aquarium

Considering above, what is the best bet...should i buy some aquarium kits or start building my own (which one would be effective for both fish and plants and also economically good?)

And of course, you need to guide me in setting up live plant tank (water temperature, light requirement and other required and basic set ups)

I have endless questions......but i need to start (with ur help) now and i hope I'll get clarified over the period.

Thanks a lot!

Answer 1

If I was you I would either buy a 5 gallon tank or a 3.5 gallon kit. I have never seen a kit for a 5 gallon tank.

I will tell you what you will need.

1. Tank ( we will say you are getting the 5 gallon)

2.heater

3.filter

4.rocks

5.plants

6.cave ( especially if you get nocturnal fish)

7.food ( if getting a betta you must get betta food)

8. hood

9. Run your aqaurium light for 8 to 12 hours. (when you wake up and shut it off when you go to sleep)

10. Choose a betta that looks healthy. Make sure there is no fin splits or rottage

11. Make sure you get easy plants to take care of.

12. You could get some ghost shrimp for your tank to. They are like $.20 some cents. Also, you could get one snail. ( make sure you don't get 2, they breed to much)

Answer 2

your best bet would be to buy a kit as they will include just about everything that you will need to get started and at a lower price than buying things seperate. the light that comes with the tank kit will be ok but you might want to change the bulb to something that will stimulate plant growth. also fertilizer tabs to assist in growth is recommended. the water temp would be the same as the fish that you get. generally its 78degrees F