5.5 Gallon Betta Paradise Build

Building Your Betta's Paradise: 

Creating a beautiful and thriving home for your betta fish in a 5.5-gallon nano aquarium is an exciting project! Here's a step-by-step guide to our process for success:

Gathering Supplies:

• Tank (provided): A 5.5-gallon glass aquarium is perfect for a single betta.
• Substrate (provided): Choose a betta-friendly gravel or sand. Avoid sharp rocks that can damage their delicate fins.
• Filter (provided): A small filter with adjustable flow is ideal. Bettas prefer gentle water movement. Sponge filters are a great option.
• Heater (provided): A heater set to around 78°F (25.5°C) is necessary for most betta breeds.
• Light (provided): Opt for a low-to-moderate LED light. Bettas don't require intense lighting.
• Decorations (selection of choices on list is required and provided): Driftwood, smooth rocks, and live or silk plants can create hiding spots and enrich your betta's environment. Avoid sharp or plastic plants that can tear fins.
• Thermometer (optional): Monitor water temperature to ensure your betta stays comfortable.
• Water conditioner (optional): This removes harmful chlorine and chloramines from tap water.
• Betta hammock or floating log (optional): Betta fish love to rest near the water surface, so providing a betta hammock or floating log is a thoughtful addition.
• Nets (optional): A small net will be helpful for transferring fish and removing debris.
• Test kit (optional): A liquid test kit allows you to monitor water parameters like ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate.
• *Testing requirements will be based upon bio load (plants, fish, shrimp, snails, bacteria, Ph, No3) within and age of aquarium.

Setting Up the Tank and gear up to cycle:

1. Rinse the substrate: We thoroughly rinse the gravel or sand with clean water to remove dust and debris.
2. Aquascaping: Arrange the driftwood and rocks to create hiding spots and divide the tank visually. Leave ample space for swimming.
3. Planting: Plant your chosen live plants in the substrate or attach them to the driftwood or rocks using cotton thread (which will eventually dissolve). Silk plants can also be used.
4. Fill the tank: Fill the tank with dechlorinated tap water (we use RODI), leaving a few inches of space at the top.
5. Install the equipment: Place the filter and heater following the manufacturer's instructions. Attach the thermometer to the outside of the tank for easy monitoring.
6. Lighting: Set up the light according to your chosen plants' needs. Most low-light plants need around 8-10 hours of light per day.

The Nitrogen Cycle:

Similar to a larger tank, it's crucial to establish the nitrogen cycle before introducing your betta. This natural process converts fish waste into less harmful compounds. You can cycle your tank with a few established plants or a commercially available product that introduces beneficial bacteria. This process can take several weeks. Monitor your water parameters with a test kit to ensure ammonia and nitrite levels are zero and nitrates are below 20 ppm.

Acclimating Your Betta after delivery:

Once your tank is cycled, it's time to bring your betta home! Here's how to properly acclimate them:

• Float the sealed betta bag in your tank for 15-20 minutes to adjust the water temperature.
• After floating, carefully open the bag and add a small amount of tank water to the bag every 10 minutes for about an hour.
• Use a net to gently transfer your betta to the tank. Avoid transferring any water from the bag.

Caring for Your Betta:

• Weekly water changes: Perform 20-25% water changes weekly using dechlorinated water.
• Feeding: Feed your betta a high-quality betta pellet or flake food 1-2 times a day, only giving them what they can consume in two minutes.
• Observe your betta: Regularly check on your betta's health and activity level.

Betta Enjoyment:

With proper care, your 5.5-gallon nano aquarium will become a beautiful home for your betta fish. Watching their vibrant colors flare and explore their environment is a truly rewarding experience.