How to Acclimate Your Betta to Their New Tank
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So you’ve cycled your tank, tested your parameters, and you’re ready to roll out the red carpet for your new finned friend. But before your Betta makes their big splash, there’s one more crucial step: acclimation. Bettas are sensitive little swimmers, and dropping them straight into new water—especially if the temperature or pH is different—can cause stress or even shock. Luckily, a little patience goes a long way!
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Why Acclimation Matters
Even small changes in temperature or pH can cause serious stress for Bettas.
Think of it like stepping into an ice-cold bath or breathing dry desert air when you’re used to humidity. Not comfy, right?
Acclimation helps your Betta adjust slowly to their new environment so their body can adapt without freaking out.
Perky Tip!Bettas thrive in water that’s between 78–82°F and with a pH between 6.5–8.0—but don’t chase a “perfect” pH number! Stable water conditions are way more important than trying to hit a magical target. |
Method 1: Cup Float & Drip
Best for New Fish Arrivals
If your Betta is arriving in a cup or bag, this is the safest and gentlest way to ease them into their new tank.
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STEP BY STEP
- Float the sealed cup or bag in your tank for 15–30 minutes to match the temperature.
- Open the cup or bag, and every 5 minutes, add a small splash of tank water.
- Do this for about 20–30 minutes until the cup/bag is mostly tank water.
- Use a fish net to gently move your Betta into the tank (don’t pour in the old water).
Perky Tip!Have the lights off during acclimation. It helps your Betta stay calm. |
Method 2: Gradual Pour
Best for Water Changes or Top-offs
Doing a water change or topping off?
Even then, it pays to be gentle.
- Make sure the new water is dechlorinated (ideally using a water conditioner like Sachem Prime) and close in temperature and pH to your tank.
- If your change is under 25%, you can usually pour it in slowly over a few minutes.
- For bigger changes (40–50%), add the water bit by bit over 10–15 minutes to avoid sudden shifts.
Perky Tip!Match the temperature using a thermometer—not your hand. Bettas like it cozy (78–82°F). |
Bonus: Watch & Wait
After acclimating, keep an eye on your Betta. A little pacing or curiosity is normal, but signs of stress (clamped fins, rapid gill movement, hiding) mean something may still be off.
If you notice anything fishy (pun intended), test your water again just to be safe.
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