the_dukeman

Does anyone have any ideas on my practice of treating the refill water a week ahead of time? Since I use some aquarium salt it may affect the pH, so I've read. I am finding the PH of the refill water (treated the previous week) is always between 6.2-6.8, but the untreated tap water varies from 6.2-8.4. That week may make no difference, though. Anyone?

The Dukeman :

nmwierman1977

Hi! Welcome to fishlore! First I want to say that you shouldn't putting aquarium salt in the water if you have a betta. Bettas are freshwater fish, not salt water and it could harm him/her. Salt is meant to be used as a medication only. Just letting you know.

I usually will just put tap water in those 1 gallon jugs that you buy water in or milk. Then just put the correct amount of conditioner in the water. That's how I do my treated water. Natalie

COBettaCouple

I would also recommend saving salt for medication situations that specifically call for it. I have a bunch of 1 gallon jugs also (bought some spring water at wally world) that i use to store treated tap water. Seems the easiest way, although you have to measure prime with an eyedropper. lol

the_dukeman

Thanks for your insight. I only put salt in the water at the urging of the folks at PetSmart. In fact it is suggested as standard practice for all but a few exceptions (Bettas not listed) on their Pet Parent Care Sheet. I assumed there was some new fishkeeping data since I last had a freshwater tank 8 years ago.

With everyone's help I'm sure A.B. will be thriving!

COBettaCouple

i've been advised wrongly so often at the pet store that i get all my advice here now from people like Rose who really know their stuff and don't have an interest in selling me stuff either.