Those Who Go Filterless

[ellena]

So I have this 5.5gall hex tank for a betta. I started cycling it a couple of days ago with some media from my nearly finished cycling other tank.
If I got a betta now, and did a fish in cycle instead, how often would I have to do water changes?

 

[loraxchick]

test your water everyday and do changes where appropriate.

 

[ellena]

Right, I think I'll give that a go then. I'll hold off adding anything but the betta until it's cycled

 

[loraxchick]

that is a great plan
im sure someone will say do X amount of changes X times a week, but the only way to know when to change the water is to test it.
add some mature media to speed the cycle (if you havent already done this)...ive found by doing so the new filtr is cycled within the week.
good luck.

 

[saltynay]

As a guide I would think 20% water changes twice a day but ofcourse test ammonia levels and calibrate those changes to the tank needs and your schedule.