I have a 29Gal community tank with a quite happy assortment of fish. After reading up and thinking it over, I decided to add a Beta to my tank. It's been a little bit now, but he doesn't seem to be adjusting nearly as fast as other fish have in the past. He seems to be afraid of the other fish (some are large, some are small) and he hides in the corners or under the heater. Will it just take him a while to adjust to all this room, compared to the tiny plastic bowl he was kept in?

Dagas, I have 2 males bettas living in specially designed "betta" aquariums (separately, of course).. small, but not that terrifyingly tiny stuff you see them in at shops.

I have a female that I've put into my "community" aquarium which is only a 10 gal tank. She appears happier than ANY of the other fish.

Look Here just to check out.

Thanks for the info Tree. My Betta constantly hangs out now at the heater, so I fear the water may be a bit too cool for him. It usually sets at about 77 degrees. The info you linked said they prefer around 80 degrees. Would this be safe for my other fish??

Hi again, Dagas.

Most tropical fish can be kept between 75 to 80°F (24 to 27°C). It is recommended to ensure that species are kept at their optimal range. This should be considered when selecting fish for a community aquarium. (from hagen.com)

My female is in the heated tank, but my other 2 males (in separate tanks) are at room temperature - which is much cooler than the tank.

I know any betta that I had like to have a hiding spot, you might try to put some rocks or something in the tank for him to hide in.They do take some time to adjust.

Hi there, Chickenlady! Welcome to the pool!

Yes, they do like those rocks etc. where they can hide in, periodically.

Thanks for this cool Betta fish article Tree. I have noticed bubbles in the top of my Betta's bowl. It would appear to me that it's one of those "bubble nest" they reference. I wondered what it was?

Since this got bumped back up, I'll give you an update. My beta is doing much better. He now swims around freely, when he's not under the gargoyl statue (his hiding spot).

Hes getting use to his sarrounding so give him a little time and hell get use to it. If you have fish that nip on his tail that might be one reason why he is so scared.