Need help on a small low tech tank

[Pyramid_Party]

Hi guys,


I am going to make my betta tank a planted tank. I have a 2 inch betta in a critter cage at the moment. Next week I am going to buy him a small tank in the range of 1 1/2 - 3 gallons. No more than 3 gallons. I will run a sponge filter or a very small HOB. No heater. Im planning on floating some wisteria, and maybe adding some dwarf hairgrass, and maybe 1 crypt plant or java fern. What substrate and lighting do you recommend? I have ferts and excel to help things out too. Thanks!

 

[Sab_Fan]

when I did a planted 2.5G tank for my betta, I didn't use any substrate at all . . . I had some java fern on a small piece of driftwood, a few cryptocorynes in small flower pots, and some floating plants . . . I used a 5W clip-on CFL lamp . . . worked great

if you go with a substrate, I'd recommend small-grain gravel, or one of the plant substrates like Flourite or eco-complete . . . thing is, they come in bags that are meant for 10G and up . . . hard to find a small bag . . .

 

[Pyramid_Party]

Thanks man, I'll go with your recommendations. Anyone else have any suggestions let me know.

 

[Pyramid_Party]

Oh BTW, where can I find that 5 watt clip on light?

 

[aclockworkorange]

Your betta is a tropical fish and needs a heater period. Why not just spring on a 10 gallon? $10 at petco.

 

[carsona246]

or you could get the kit for like 20 bucks and all you'll have to do is switch out the light bulbs and you'll be all set

 

[Pyramid_Party]

What kit are you talking about?

 

[Pyramid_Party]

Your betta is a tropical fish and needs a heater period. Why not just spring on a 10 gallon? $10 at petco.

Yeah I know, but alot of people don't run heaters on betta tanks. If the room temp doesn't drop below 70 you are fine. If I could use a 10 gallon I would. I just don't have the space for it. A 3 gallon would be fine for me to put up on my shelf. Later on perhaps I can upgrade him to a 10 gallon. But I can't do it at the moment.

 

[SpJc11]

like an all in one deal

 

[Pyramid_Party]

What do you mean all in 1 deal? Like a kit? What kit? I figure I buy a 2-3 gallon critter cage, slap on a sponge filter or a small HOB (which I already have). I got sand and gravel to use too, but still undecided on using a substrate. I got plants already. Really its all just the lighting I need help with. I know some lights can give off some heat. But I'm not sure if these are only incandescent bulbs or there are others. If a kit is reasonably priced I may go for it. Show me links/pics.