Replace one-third of the water volume every 3 to 5 days. Pay attention to keeping the water temperature consistent and age the water in advance.
I. Key Preparations Before Water Change
Water Aging Treatment
It is necessary to let the tap water stand still or be exposed to the sun for 3 to 5 days in advance to allow the chlorine to evaporate. Or you can directly use purified water (it is more costly but convenient). If you need to change the water urgently, you can add a dechlorinator (such as Yulebao).
Water Temperature Control
The temperature of the new water should be the same as that of the original tank water. It is recommended to use a thermometer or a temperature gun to detect the temperature. A large temperature difference will cause stress to the betta fish.
II. Water Change Steps and Frequency
Water Change Volume and Frequency
General Recommendation: Replace one-third of the water volume every 3 to 5 days to avoid drastic fluctuations in water quality.
For Small Tanks or Tanks with Easily Dirty Water: You can change a small amount of water (such as one-third) every day and complete a full water change within 3 days.
In Extreme Situations: If the water quality is severely turbid, you can change all the water, but make sure that the new water has been properly treated.
Operation Details
Use a thin tube or a dropper to suck out the remaining bait and fish feces at the bottom, and then slowly pour the new water along the wall of the tank to avoid flushing the fish directly.
After changing the water, add sterilized Terminalia catappa leaves and a small amount of sea salt to simulate the natural environment.
III. Precautions
Avoid Common Mistakes
Do not use untreated tap water or water with a large temperature difference.
When changing all the water, you need to thoroughly clean the dirt in the tank. Otherwise, the remaining bacteria will multiply rapidly.
Observe the Fish's Condition
If the betta fish shows signs of restlessness (such as swimming rapidly or hiding) after the water change, you need to pause and check the water temperature or water quality.
IV. Maintenance Tips
Daily Cleaning: Suck out the fish feces and remaining bait every day to reduce the pressure of water change.
Tool Recommendations: Use a dropper or a thin-slit cleaning brush to clean the small tank to avoid scratching the fish or the tank wall.
Conclusion: The core of changing water for betta fish is to stabilize the water quality and temperature. Reduce stress through scientific frequency and gentle operation. Give priority to more authoritative methods (such as changing water in installments) and avoid radical suggestions from a single source (such as frequent full water changes).