What a diffference

[babygeige]

I just wanted to share an observation I've made.

When I bought those 3 platies a little over a month ago, I had to put the Red betta that was in my 5 gallon in the 30 so I could QT the platies. Well, Red didn't do very well in the 30. 30 gallons isn't big enough for 2 female bettas, at least not with my tough girl Pink betta. So red's tail got shredded and so did her bottom fin thing.

SO, I had to set up the old 1.5 gal to put Red in because the platies had ick. No filter, not heater. It was probably only in the low to mid 60's in that tank. I did water changes every other day and added Melafix to help her fins grow back, but it just wasn't helping.

I was able to move the platies to the 30 and put Red back in the 5 about 2 weeks ago and since then her fins have grown back almost completely!! I was really surprised at how quickly they took off once I moved her.

I guess it was the temperature that made such a big difference. I was starting to think she wouldn't heal and then I moved her and boom, almost back to 100%!!

[murdock6701]

congrats Steph! great job!

[eve]

that's great, congrats

it's not just temperature, but the constant movement of water if you have a filter in your tank
moving water will always be healthier then stagnant water

[Carl]

I am glad to read she is better Stephanie.

This post is also very educational as well, so thanks!

I will note that in addition to Eve's points, I will add that a tank with a filter, a larger volume of water, and simply good circulation and gas exchange will also maintain a good Redox balance as well.

Carl

[bikeguy33]

as much as anything, this may prove that a betta can exist in small unfiltered containers....but are less stressed in a larger space

[brenda]

That is interesting...I also agree it comes form them being less stressed in a bigger space, among all the other things mentioned.

[Suzie Q (Lori)]

Congrats on Red's improvements!!!

[goldenpuon]

Glad your betta is doing better. Good job on figuring it out!

[babygeige]

Thanks everyone. Her coloration was pretty blah while she in there too, so she probably was more stressed out in the 1.5 gal. I didn't think of that.
I did have an air stone bubbling in the 1.5 gal, so it wasn't completely stagnant, but it just goes to show what a difference a decent living space makes to these little guys!