General Betta Fish Care

Question
I got my Beta fish about a week ago, but I am completely clueless. I have never had a Beta fish before and would like to know the basics about how much to feed it, when to change its water, what size tank would be the best, and information about the temperature you're supposed to  keep the tank. Please help! Oh, yeah. Should I be watching the pH of the water?  

Answer
Hi Mandy,
  Bettas come from shallow stagnant waters in southeast Asia. As such, they are very tolerant of water conditions.  So, I wouldn't worry about the pH.  

  Put the betta in a nice little aquarium (not a bowl or a vase).  A 10 gallon tank would be great.  He needs a heater (78-80oC is fine).  

  Feed it a few flakes a day.  Don't let uneaten food accumulate in the tank.  

  It is best to change some of the water once a week. I generally recommend changing about 20-25% once a week, every week.  

-- Ron
  rcoleman@cichlidresearch.com
  Cichlid Research Home Page <http://cichlidresearch.com>