MamaFish

Thanks for all the help getting started cycling fishless

I finally found pure ammonia at ACE (I got that bit of info on the forums too ) and we have the process started...

In the meantime, I have two other questions-

1. Is there that much of a difference between the different water conditioners for getting rid of chlorine etc.? There are over 20 different ones at LFS with prices that range widely. Some claim to be for specific fish (Bettas, goldfish etc) and others for anything tropical. Does it matter which one I use?

2. Our tank is only a 6 gallon, so there has been much debate about what to put in it. The kids wanted Danios, but we decided (on advice from here) that the tank wasn't really big enough. We've considered neon tetras, but I've read they aren't that good in new tanks, so we decided against that too. We have kind of settled on getting a betta, but I know the kids would love more than one fish. Could we put in a cory as well? And if so, which would you add first?

ynaggo

1) No, as long as it detoxes chlorine your good to go, but I would take a guess that the ones who are designed for Bettas or Goldfish have some special additive.

2) I see no problem keeping a cory in the tank, just keep your betta fed
You could also get a African Dwarf Frog, make sure its not the African Clawed Frog because they eat any fish.

In My Opinion you could get:

Otos
Corys
African Dwarf Frog
White Cloud Minnows
Ghost or Cherry Shrimp

btate617

I would not buy a conditioner that removes only chlorine.

Look for one that will remove chlorine AND chloramine.
Prime is a poular brand and in my experience is a good choice.

Brian

Jaysee

Agreed, although I don't know of any that ONLY do chlorine. Not true - stress coat only removes chlorine. Stress coat + removes both chlors.

1. I don't think it matters much. I've used several brands over the years and have never noticed any difference between them.

2. I'm sorry you had to SETTLE for a betta. It'll grow on you though, I promise I wouldn't put a cory by itself in such a small tank. Aside from space/school issues, it'll likely just sit there and be very uninteresting. I also wouldn't waste money on cherry shrimp, as the betta WILL eat them. The ADF is okay, but the claws can easily shred the fins of the betta. I would do a bunch of ghost shrimp and a mystery snail for tankmates. The betta will eat one here and there, but only when they molt.

Lucy

I'd just like to add a couple of things to the above suggestions.
6g's isn't big enough for regular cories. You might want to look at pygmy cories for your size tank. There are 3 species. Corydoras habrosis, hastatus and pygmeaus. They all stay really small and are super cute.
Have a back up plan in case your betta won't accept tank mates.

peacemaker92

Welcome to Fishlore, Mama

aquarist48

Hello MamaFish. I really think you and your kids will enjoy the Betta once you have it in it's nice new home. Here is a link you may find helpful if you haven't seen it:
Welcome and Betta Care Guide - Please Read First!!!

What is most recommended on this site is Prime water conditioner. Personally I use Nova Aqua and Amquel +. These two water conditioners I can purchase in the gallon size so it's more economical for me as well as being great conditioners. Too, it takes a lot to condition 265g They also add body slime, detox ammonia, nitrites and nitrates, removes chlorine, chloramine, heavy metals and then some. I've used them both for the past 10 years.
You can click on one of the links at the top where it says "Online Fish Stores" and check each product before you make a purchase. I have found Nova Aqua and Amquel + at my local Petco and with using my PALS card it's been much cheaper than ordering it. (no shipping charges either). I like and use DrsFosterSmith. I've used them for many years. Very reliable.
Best of luck and keep us posted. I hope you can share some photos when you have time.
Ken