Can I put my betta in a ten gallon tank to help cycle my tank?

K

Kayla Renee'

New member
You can, but it would be more humane to do a fish-less cycle. There are several products you can buy, like "Microbe-Lift's Cycling & Water Conditioning Kit". I have used this and it works well. Of course you'll also want some plants and gravel in the aquarium as it can sometimes affect the pH levels of the water when you put them in later, which will stress the fish. Fish can't tolerate a change in pH of more than 0.2 at a time. So be careful. The cloudiness of the water is a normal part of cycling, and if you have a filter in the tank (which I would HIGHLY recommend if you're getting Guppies as they need filtered water) it should clear up within a day or two. If you do decide to cycle with the Betta, it should be fine as they are hardy fish. If you have a powerful filter try to do something to offset the flow from the filter. Betta's have a hard time getting around in flowing water because of their long fins. They are also used to stagnant pools. Remember to take the Betta out and put it in a second tank if you decide to put the Guppies in later, as the Betta will attack anything flashy. Good luck!
 
I plan to put guppies in the ten gallon as soon as my tank is cycled. It's been up and running since Sunday, and is turning a slight gray color. I haven't put anything in tank to cause this. Nothing is in the tank either; no plants, rocks, or gravel.

So, answers?
Don't worry, I love my betta (his name is Bojangles) and had him for three years already. I thought he could help me with the fish cycle thus my question being asked.

Thank you for the answers this far.
 
Well, Bettas are hardy fish. And if you can't do a fish less cycle it could be okay to use him. Just don't slack on the water changes. It's good to place a plant or two in there to uptake some of the waste from the Betta.
 
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