The best temperature for betta fish is between 76 and 81 degrees F. 1 These tropical fish need warm water, and room temperature water is often too cold. Temperature variations can cause stress in beekeepers, particularly in buildings in cool climes where nighttime lows are substantially lower. Here at fishtankenthusiast.com is how to establish and maintain the right water temperature for your betta fish.
The best temperature for betta fish
In the wild, betta fish live in tropical regions. So, when you keep betta fish in a home aquarium, they still need the warm water environment they are used to. In fact, they have a fairly narrow ideal temperature range – optimal is 78-80º F (s25.5-26.5º C) .
Although bettas can tolerate temperatures between 72-86º F (22-30º C), if the water is outside their ideal range, they are just surviving — not thriving. It’s like when you go into a hot sauna, or when you’re outside in the cold: you’re alive, but you’re uncomfortable.
Fully submerged heaters versus partially submerged heaters
The term submersible refers to heaters that can be completely submerged in water. However, some manufacturers use the term “partially submerged”, meaning that part of the heater must be above the water level. In general, partially submerged heaters are a bit cheaper but not as versatile. Fully submerged heaters should be used whenever possible, regardless of tank size, as they produce hot water more evenly. Submersible heaters are also less likely to be damaged by water or cause an electric shock in the tank.
Preset heaters vs adjustable heaters
Preset heaters have a single preset temperature, typically 78 degrees F. There is no way to adjust the preset heater; they simply turn on and off as needed to reach factory settings. However, they are often smaller and cheaper, making them good candidates for small aquariums.
Adjustable heaters come in two types. One type has temperature markings that allow you to select a specific number. The second type has a knob labeled with only plus and minus signs; These heaters have a small light that lights up when the heater radiates heat and you choose the set point. To adjust the set point, you must first place the thermometer in the jar. After that, switch on the heater and watch your thermometer to see when the temperature reaches the appropriate level. Finally, turn the knob until the light turns off; This new set point temperature will then be maintained.
Fireplace shape
Manufacturers are going beyond the typical torpedo-style heater that is sucked within the tank with the introduction of very small heaters. There are numerous sizes and shapes for heaters. Some are flat, while others are rectangular. The Betta heater is rounded to fit the bottom of the bowl.
They all share the trait of being low energy consumers and constructed of materials that are resistant to breaking. You can try to conceal the heater behind decorations instead of hiding flat models under gravel. Some flat heaters can even be placed underneath the fish tank, attached to the glass at the bottom of the tank.
Thermometer
Regardless of the type, size or shape of the heater, it will not come with a built-in thermometer. Therefore, it is important to use an aquarium thermometer to check the water temperature regularly and ensure that the heater does not make the water too hot or too cold for your betta fish. Small, color-changing sticker thermometers are ideal for mini aquariums and are quite inexpensive.
If the tank is very small and the thermometer sticker is unsightly, you can leave the thermometer standing in the tank for a short time to measure the temperature and then remove it.
What happens if the water temperature drops below or above ideal levels?
Your betta fish may exhibit odd behaviors if the tank’s temperature is too high for them. This could result in physiological changes in the fish. If the water temperature is too low, the fish’s metabolic function will decrease, making the fish too cold to move much. Fish can float on the bottom of the tank or float on one side. The fish’s immunity to disease may also decrease.
On the other hand, betta fish may swim abnormally quickly if the water temperature is too high. Its rapid movement and accelerated metabolic processes will actually accelerate its aging process! Because of this, betta fish housed in very warm water will have shorter lives than others. Maintaining the right water temperature for your betta fish can help them live longer and happier lives.
How to safely adjust water temperature
Water temperatures that are too cold or too warm can affect a betta’s health, but sudden changes in temperature can also stress the fish. It is important to gradually adjust the water temperature if it is not at an optimal level. Also, pay attention during water changes, as this can cause significant temperature fluctuations. Always adjust new water to the appropriate tank water temperature before adding it to the aquarium when doing a partial water change or refilling the aquarium.
Seek guidance from a fish veterinarian if your betta fish exhibits symptoms of disease or if you have any queries about keeping a betta fish habitat.
