New And Clueless, Have Pity!

[CherryDanio]

Hi all, having been asked by OH what I will be wanting for my birthday (not for several months, i'm impressed with the organisation!) I started thinking about getting a betta tank. From what I've read, admittedly not much, I would be best off getting one by himself. I think I want a male one as they have longer fins. From what i've heard they prefer smaller tanks aswell. I currently have a big ol' cold water tank and we are currently setting up a little tropical with guppies and eventually neon tetras. These are both still works in progress but will be totally up and running before I get another tank.

* What size tank would be suitable for one Betta?
* Would getting one male all on his lonesome be best or would he be happier with some other fish (if so what)?
* I believe silk or real plants are preferred incase his lovely fins snag on plastic. Which is best?

Anyother hints, tips, tricks from the experts would be greatly appreciated. The reason for the tank size question is that I have spent hours researching it online and everyone comes back with different answers. I figure people who actually own happy healthy fish are likely to know best hence me being here!

 

[lilfishie]

Welcome, bettas are great little fish, each with there own personalitys.

Tank size you could go for a 5gal (roughly 20l) for a lone male, or something like a 10 gal and add some cories which tend to make very good tankmates.

As you have said silk or real plants are best with there fins, as for which is best it depends on what you prefer

 

[Night61]

5 gallons is ideal for the little guy, a heater and filter will make his and your life easier.
a male betta would be fine, tank mates depend on the size and attitude of you little friends, i have had fish that are perfectly happy to be on there own, i have also had some that shared there tanks with other fish and snails without problems.
as for plants silk or real should be fine, i use silk just because they are easier to maintain, but i know a few others here use real and the bettas are fine. that is a matter of personal preference to be honest
good luck with finding a new little friend.