Best Tank Size For Betta Fish

For a betta fish to live stress free you must have a 5 gallon tank. The simple theory behind this is that bettas need their own territory to swim and don't like other fish to dominate their life. That is why for a single betta 5 gallon tank is pretty good start.

• Approximate dimensions of a 5.5 gallon tank are 
• 16 inches X 8 inches X 10 inches
• Approximate cost of tank of this size $40 to $50 US

Bettas are tropical fishes and live in water with a constant temperature of about 78 degrees Fahrenheit. This means you'll also require a water heater and a sponge filer to keep a continuous temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. When you buy the water heater the packet will display the wattage required for the 5 gallon tank so make sure you buy the perfect heater that can handle 5 gallons of capacity. It's good if you buy a water heater with a thermostat built-into it. This will prevent overheating of tank water.

Maintenance is absolutely necessary for this size of tank. You must change 20% water every week using the siphon method. Do not change the entire water as the water chemistry will get disturbed. 

If it not possible for you to invest that much amount of money right now, or feel that you don't really need other fish in the tank then to start you can even go with a tank with 2.5 gllon to 5 gallon for just one betta fish in the tank. With this smaller tank you won't be able to stock other fishes in it as it would be too stressful for the betta. A 2.5 gallon tank will cost you something around $10 US.

Which tank size you should go for is finally a matter of choice. Do you want a big tank with just one fish swimming in it or a community?

Or you can go with a small tank with just one betta fish in it if you are happy with the visual set up.

If you want to add other fish to this 5 gallon tank then make sure check this article on fish compatibility for bettas.