Betta fish in a few weeks? Cycling? ?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Jessica H
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Jessica H

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So i am getting a betta fish in one week. I have heard about cycling but don't quite understand. I don't have a filter or heater. I know they need one but i think he'll be fine.

Could I just put water out tomorrow & that would 'cycle' it???
 
I have 2 Bettas, and have had them for a year, and had several befor. I keep them in small tanks, no filter or heater. I clean tanks once a week.
 
You should get at least a heater first. It's irresponsible not to spend the 5-10 bucks to keep your fish healthy.

www.firsttankguide.net has info on cycling.

I doubt you can do it in your tank/bowl/whatever though.
 
Cycling is only for filtered tanks. And make sure to put water conditioner in the water and let it get to room temp before putting your fish in.
 
Cycling just refers to getting beneficial bacteria established on your filters. If you don't have any filters, then don't worry about it. Just make sure you buy some water preparation chemicals for your fish. Don't just dump it in raw tap water.

I have had my betta in a small critter keeper (about 1/4 gallon) with no filter an no heater for over two years. Just vacuum out poop and do water changes regularly.
 
I have a Betta in a dish that I have had for 4 years, no heater, just use chlorine out,change the water and feed them.....
 
No, he won't be fine without a heater or a filter. It's winter time now, depending on where you are in the world, and he needs a heater, no matter the temperature of your house, or outside. Keep him in a tank that is 5 gallons or more, 2.5 gallons at MINIMUM. If you do not get a filter, your Betta will most likely die of ammonia burns, AKA, swimming and living in its own waste.

You should put water out tonight, GET A FILTER, or else it will not be cycled. You need to put a few drops of the bottled stuff from the pet store - it's expensive, but it speeds up the process of cycling. Cycling the tank means that all of the cycles, AKA nitrate/nitrite, ammonia, and the pH are perfect. Upon getting your fish, you should get test strips from the pet store, and test your water. If your water does not display as okay for your fish, you should not get him.

If you do not get a filter, you're setting yourself up for cleaning the tank every two days. Nobody wants to do this, especially with school, work, and other things in life. Save up $20, and get a filter. As well as a heater! If you do not get a heater, your Betta will get cold, and mostly just sit on the bottom of the tank. If you want him to live a much longer, and happier life, invest a small amount of money in getting a heater and filter.
 
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