When you select a tank for your betta dont worry about gallons.  In fishkeeping the more gallons you have the better, and while many people STRESS that bettas should have 10 gallons or 5 gallons etc... it isnt required.  Bowls will do the job just fine. But if you feel that it is to small, than by all means get what ever size you feel is good. I use betta bowls on my bettas and havent had any problems. I am aware of the issues so when people send me hate mail, i just ignore it.  Anyway, when looking at a tank, make sure it has not cracks and it should have a cover. Bettas can jump so try and get a hood/lid.    Filters arent nesessary, but are suggested.  Remember that long fin bettas dont exist in the wild so they arent use to currents caused by power filters. Their long fins pick up drag and often cause the betta problems swimming.  So power filters should be placed on low. Sponge filters are best.  often inexpensive and get the job done.

 

Remember that bettas are different and have different aggression levels.  Some bettas are more aggressive than others. So base your tankmates accordingly. I wouldnt put any other fish in the tank unless it is 10 gallons or less. And a fitler is present.  Some people say to avoid fishes with long fins and bright colors, but i havent found any truth to this. Just remember that all bettas are different. Common betta tankmates include, dwarf otto catfish, white clouds, and other small comunity fish. (See Betta Buddies for more info)

 

When setting up a betta tank or anyfish tank, remember to wash the tank out first. Tanks for sale often get dirt and dust, so remember to wash out the tank. I like to wash the tank out with cold water and then warm water. After the warm water wipe the tank down with a paper towel to give it a nice shine.  Next wash the gravel.  By adding the gravel into a container like a plastic bowl, you can wash the gravel out by adding water and using your hand.  after the gravel is washed, you can add it to the tank. You are ready for water. I like to use about 1/4 of the tank/bowl with warm tap water. and the rest with aged water(if aged water isnt used, it is recommended that you let the tank with the tap water sit for 24 hours.) Adding water conditioners will be great for the tank. Stress coat is my favorite product. Adding live plants or fake decorations should be added now as well.  Allow the tank to sit for 10 minutes to 24 hours. 

 

Remember to float your fishes first. This will allow the transfer of heat to reach equilbrium. This will reduce the chances of the fish going into shock. float the fish for about 15 minutes. When floating, add some of the tank water to the bag/ container. 

It is a good idea to net the fish out, do not add the water from the bag to the tank.

 

After this, it is a good idea to turn off the lights and allow the fish to get use to the tank for about 4 hours before anything. try and avoid sharp movements, and loud noice. You do not need to feed your fish for this day.

 

Cleaning your betta tank can vary due to design etc....  The way I change my betta bowls is the by the following. 

1. Always do it by a sink and have 2 extra containers present.

2. Leave on container empty, And ill one with water that your fish can swim in.

3. Pour the betta water into the empty container and have a net to obtain the fish.

4. Once the fish is in net, release it into the second container with the fish water.

5. Rince the bettas orginial tank 2 times with tap water.

6. Use a paper towel and wipe the inside glass.

7. Again rince the container out one more time.

8. Have tap water sitting out for about 48 hours before water change.

9. Add some stress coat, and or aquarium salt.

10. Add the tap water or water that has been set out.

11. Scoop the fish out of the second container.

12. Release the betta into its tank

13. Clean up your MESS!!! :)

This is the way i change my betta bowls. When you deal with alot of fish, it is always a good idea to change the container water after every 5 bettas or so to prevent any transfer of illness.

 

When you have a fishtank with betta"s" in it.

I would use the Python Water Changing System. It provides a fast and easy way to change water in a fish tank without the need for scooping out the water by hand. It is good for 10 gallons to 10000 gallons.  Good product and great not only for large betta tanks, but for general fishkeeping.