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If you are thinking you might go to a community tank also look at a 29 gallon. They have the same footprint of a 20 long, but are taller. That would expand your future options more.

That is what I did. Originally was getting a 20L then went with a 29 gal instead. I like the extra volume & height. Obviously it is a heavier tank and the stand needs to be able to hold more weight. 37 Gallon shares the same footprint as well, but is awfully tall.

 

Can people explain this “footprint” that is being mentioned ? Are we talking about eco foot print like power usage / carbon footprint ..

 

We often use the word footprint to describe the length and width of a tank. So the length and width of a 29 and 20 long is the same. The difference is the hight. I think a 20 long is 12 in tall and a 29 is 18.

 

Ohhhhhhh now I see. Thanks

 

Welcome!

My girlfriend and I were in the same boat. We wanted betas and limited on places to put them. (Aside from our 75Gallon).

We actually ended up going with 2x Fluval Spec III tank/kits (they also have a 5 gallon version). I know many say its 5 gal minimum for bettas, but 2.5 (its actually ~3 gallons but 2.5 in the swimmable area) is fine. These tanks are compact, and EASY to cycle, you get a full 3 stage filter, a great light to grow plants with. They are compact and fit anywhere!! Our betas are in heaven blowing bubble nests and swimming around their areas and in between the plants.

If you do get the fluval spec III you will need to get a fluval pre-filter sponge to put over the output to baffle the flow so your betta doesn't get blown around.

Dont forget a heater, you can put that in the rear hidden filter compartment.

We are growing java ferns bacopa and anubias very well. Also if you properly cycle this tank, this filter set up is absolute overkill for a tank this size, and you can keep a good 1x a week PWC schedule.

Dont forget blood worms for treats and deshelled peas to help them digest their food! And do not over feed! Feed small portions 1x or 2x a day don't let the stuff get all over the tank!

alliemac gave a great shopping list, follow that for the supplies if you do end up going with a different tank.

 

Np! I've heard a lot of people recommend starting with a 29. Its a nice size and can be home to a nice number of inhabitants.

 

Np! I've heard a lot of people recommend starting with a 29. Its a nice size and can be home to a nice number of inhabitants.

I thought about it and I think I’m going to stick with the 20L. I don’t need the height for the Bettas. Plus the spot it’s going is pretty tall and it’s going to work out really well with the 20L.

My husband was really interested in the 55 gal size so that’s what might be our next tank for the living room,

 

Sounds good! Can't wait to hear how it goes!