A Detailed Guide to Choosing Betta Fish Tank Sizes
I. Basic Recommended Sizes
Standard Size: A square tank of 20-40 cm (holding 5-19 liters of water) is the best choice, with the 30 cm ultra-clear glass tank being the most recommended. This size provides sufficient swimming space while facilitating water quality management.
Minimum Size: The bottom line is 15×15×20 cm (approximately 4.5 liters of water), which is only suitable for hardy betta varieties like Veiltail Bettas. For more delicate varieties such as Halfmoon Bettas, a tank with a water capacity of at least 500 milliliters is recommended.
International Standard: A 5-gallon tank (about 19 liters of water) is more conducive to installing heating and filtration equipment, making it suitable for long-term betta keeping.
II. Varietal Differences
Large Betta Varieties (e.g., Plakat Bettas): A 30-35 cm tank is recommended to avoid injuries from collisions or fish jumping out due to insufficient space.
Sensitive Varieties (e.g., Halfmoon Bettas): Require more water volume, with a minimum of 500 milliliters recommended.
III. Material and Design
Material: Prioritize ultra-clear glass or acrylic for good light transmission, which allows for easy observation of the betta’s condition.
Shape: Square tanks are more suitable than round ones. Round tanks may restrict the betta’s swimming space, leading to injuries from limited movement.
IV. Key Considerations
Solitary Housing Principle: Bettas are aggressive and must be kept alone. Avoid mixing them with other fish to prevent fights.
Water Quality Management: Small tanks require more frequent water changes (2-3 times a week), while larger tanks (19 liters or more) allow for less frequent changes (once a week).
Depth Control: The water should not be too shallow, but sufficient surface space must be reserved for the betta to breathe air.
V. Common Misconceptions
Risks of Small Tanks: Tanks smaller than 10 cm are not recommended, as they easily cause betta injuries, jumping, and rapid water quality deterioration.
Excessive Space: Overly large tanks (e.g., over 40 cm) may waste resources and make it difficult to monitor the betta’s behavior and health.
VI. Advanced Recommendations
Heating Equipment: For small tanks, a mini heater is recommended to maintain a stable water temperature between 22-28℃.
Filtration System: For tanks larger than 5 liters, a small filter is recommended, but the water flow should not be too strong.
Aquascaping Design: Add appropriate aquatic plants and hiding spots to both beautify the environment and provide a sense of security for the betta.
VII. Summary
When choosing a betta tank, comprehensively consider the variety’s characteristics, breeding conditions, and maintenance capabilities. A square tank of around 30 cm is the most balanced choice, meeting the betta’s basic needs while facilitating daily management. For beginners, starting with a 15-20 liter tank is recommended, with adjustments made as experience is gained.