Hello all. My son has two small betta tanks. He put in an air stone in both...but from what I have heard betta's don't need air or filters. My question is, what other fish could he possibly put in the tank that don't require a filter system? For example, do snails need a filter? Any other fish that you all know of that don't require a filter? Thank you for any help.
? about Betta's and filters....
- Thread starter Rheanun
- Start date
Bettas need a filter and heater, just like any other tropical fish. You can get away without a filter IF you are doing DAILY water changes of atleast 50% whilst doing a thorough gravel vacum.
How big (in galons or post the length width and hieght in inches) are these "small" tanks?
How big (in galons or post the length width and hieght in inches) are these "small" tanks?
Ideally, a betta should be kept in a filtered tank of at least 2.5 gallons. They do tell you that they can be kept in very small tanks or even cups at the fish stores, but from experience I can tell you that betta's do much better in tanks of at least 5gallons. Unless the water is being changed daily, a filter system really should be used. I currently have a betta in my 55g and my 10g tanks and they do use every inch of the tanks they are in. I have kept bettas in 1g tanks and they seem to be depressed and don't live as long as the bettas in the larger tanks. Can they live without filtration?...technically yes...should they?...no.
a good filtration system for a "small tank" (if you don't already have one) is the azoo palm filter. very effective, very quiet. here's a link: www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/Prod_Display.cfm?pcatid=9821&N=2004+22769
Officially I would say all fish require a filter to keep the water clean and toxin-free.
However, you can get away without a filter in a betta tank if you are willing to change 15-20% of the tank's water every day.
I've got a 3 gallon endler tank myself with no filter or air pump. However, it's got lots of live plants in it, and I change out water every day or two.
However, you can get away without a filter in a betta tank if you are willing to change 15-20% of the tank's water every day.
I've got a 3 gallon endler tank myself with no filter or air pump. However, it's got lots of live plants in it, and I change out water every day or two.
Last edited:
I agree with what everyone said so far. Try to get a cheap filter for your Betta. As for your question on other fish. Yes bettas can have tank buddies, but it depends on how big of a tank / bowl we are talking... if its anything less than 5g I would not recomend anymore fish, if it is 5g or bigger you would need a filter for sure. A Snail might be ok tho. And if a cheap filter is out of the question. Try to get "Betta bulbs" and some gravel or a live plant and gravel. Have your son change about 25% of the water every day.