Female Betta

[snake007]

I recently rescued a female betta from being chucked in a bin, I have put in her into a 5 gallon cycled tank, filtered and heated but its a plastic tank, will it make a difference?
I was wondering do I need to put caves? What type of plants is best and also what kind of substrate?

Thanks

 

[LadyDragon]

congratulations! She sounds like a lucky girl indeed, not only because you rescued her, but also because you seem so concerned about her environment
I am sure she appreciates the water more than the material the container is made of I don't think they mind much whether it's glass, acrylic, plastic, etc just as long as the water is good and the filter isn't making too much current for them, as they are adapted for stagnant water.

Substrate is your choice, I keep mine on sand with flattened marbles for color. They DO like plants (real or silk over plastic, so it doesn't tear their fins... But that is more for male Bettas) and caves... Mine love exploring every nook and cranny of their areas. They also fit into spaces a whole lot smaller than you'd expect, so if you put shells in to decorate, don't be too alarmed if the Betta is no where to be seen... Only to find it peeking out from inside the shell as you start pulling down the tank convinced that the cat got to it!
Good luck with your new girl, they are quite little characters!

 

[snake007]

Thank You very much!