New to tanks and fish..............HELP

Question
Hello,
We are sorry, but Alex Kline wasn't able to answer your question:

Hello, I'm VERY new at aquariums or anything to do with them. I got a
SMALL fish tank as a gift, it may hold about a gallon of water it's
triangle shaped. It did not come with a filter system (do I need one for a
tank this small?) it did come with 1" air stone and hose and the gizmo
to push the air in to the stone to make the air. My friend gave it to
me after she decided not to do fish any more. I guess what I'm asking is
how many fish and what type of fish should I put in this tank? I also
have Tetra Aqua Aqua safe water conditoner. Is there anything eles I
need for this little tank? I would like something very easy to care for
and wont over run me with fish. Please tell me what other things I may
need. My 4 yr. old is excited. The tank is "cycling" now.
Thanks in advance, Leesa :)


Answer
Hi Leesa;

A one gallon is really only large enough for a betta. Other fish need filtration or just get too big. Bettas are unique and don't need filtration so just gently moving water from the bubbles is fine. If it seems to move the water too much and he is struggling in the current, just remove it or get a little air valve so you can turn the air down. Here is more information about bettas and how to care for them;

http://www.healthybetta.com/

I think what you mean by 'cycling' is that the tank is full of water and circulating. True "Cycling" is a process in an aquarium when beneficial bacteria grows in the filter and on decorations in your tank. It takes several weeks to complete. Here is a link to my article about it;

http://www.xanga.com/Expert_Fish_Help

At Your Service;
Chris Robbins