Water change question?

Question

I've read that it's very important for bettas that any water used for a water change be the same temperature as the tank water. Assuming you're keeping the tank at a constant temperature by using a heater, how do you maintain water temperature for the new water in a small bucket or one gallon jar (this is for a small set up)?

Answer 1

Get a floating tank thermometer and test the temp of both betta water and the replacement water. (best)
Keep a gallon container of pretreated water near where the betta fish is, (same room area so that the temp is near to tank/ bowl temp.
Betta are pretty hardy fish and do not shock as easily as some other fish breeds do.

Answer 2

I'll tell you my little trick... Listen carefully now... lol

During the day, my betta has a heater that's disguised as a tank light. lol At night, the light goes off, and the temp falls to room temperature. At all times I have a gallon jug full of water sitting on my counter, which is also room temp. I change my betta's tank in the morning before I feed him, so the water is the same temp. I don't usually take my betta out for the weekly changing since his is about a 2 gallon tank. But if you need to, catch him, and throw him in a cup, bowl, or baggie with some of the old water, and do what you have to in his tank. I do that about once a month, so I can clean out the gravel too.

Neat little trick, eh??? lol
;o)

Answer 3

i don't have bettas but when i change my tanks water i put my fish in ziplock bags w/ their old water & put it in the new water for 15 minutes like you do when you get a new fish. i just decided to do it on my own & it seemed like they didnt get stressed out any