Changing the water for your betta fish is a crucial step in maintaining its health and vitality. Here’s a detailed guide to help you do it correctly:
I. Preparation Before Water Change
Water Quality Testing
Ensure the new water has a pH level of 6.5-7.5, with ammonia and nitrite levels at 0, and nitrate levels below 20ppm. You can use test kits for this purpose.
Tap Water Treatment
Let tap water sit for 24 hours in advance, or use a water conditioner (such as Seachem Prime) to remove chlorine and heavy metals.
Water Temperature Control
The temperature of the new water should match that of the aquarium water (26-28℃) to avoid temperature shocks that stress the fish. Use a thermometer to check.
Tools for Water Change
Prepare a siphon (water changer), hose, bucket, and clean filter cotton or gauze (for filtering impurities).
II. Steps for Water Change
Partial Water Change (Recommended)
Frequency: Once a week, replacing 20%-30% of the water each time (excessive water change may disrupt the nitrification system).
Operation:
Use the siphon to remove leftover food, feces, and algae from the bottom, avoiding over-stirring the substrate.
Pour the new water slowly, along the tank wall or using a container to buffer the water flow, to reduce impact on the fish.
Complete Water Change (For Special Cases)
Only use this method when there is severe contamination or during disease treatment. Retain a portion of the original tank water (e.g., 1/3) to maintain beneficial bacteria colonies. Thoroughly clean the fish tank and decorations (avoid using detergent), disinfect with hot water or salt, then rinse them clean.
III. Notes
Avoid Stress
Handle the water change gently, as bettas are sensitive to water flow. After the water change, observe if the fish shows abnormal behaviors such as fin clamping or refusing to eat.
Maintain Water Quality Stability
Do not feed the fish immediately after a water change; wait until it has adapted before feeding. If the aquarium has no filtration system, more frequent water changes are needed (e.g., twice a week, 10%-20% each time).
Handling Special Situations
New Fish Introduction: It is recommended to acclimate the fish to the water temperature and quality first (place the fish bag in the tank to balance the temperature for 30 minutes, then slowly mix the tank water into the bag) before changing the water.
Breeding Period: Reduce the frequency of water changes to avoid disturbing the fish nest.
IV. Daily Maintenance Suggestions
Regular Cleaning: Remove the oil film on the water surface daily (using oil-absorbing paper or duckweed).
Water Quality Monitoring: Test ammonia and nitrite levels weekly and adjust the water change schedule promptly.
Plant Assistance: Add aquatic plants like Anubias and Moss, which help absorb harmful substances.
With scientific water changes and maintenance, your betta fish will maintain its bright color and active state. If there are abnormalities (such as ich or fin rot), combine water changes with medication for treatment.