Is my betta old?

[kbjunior8]

maybe the light is starting to disturb him or something in the tank because my betta faded at one point too, i made some changes and he was back to his colourful self in 2 days

[ikermalli]

okay, what changes do you think I should make also does anybgody know where to get those glass dividers for your aquarium because I have a 5G I am thinking of getting another betta and splitting the tank

[Ichthius]

Betta splendens usually only live for 2 years or so. I've had some live for that long, and others, who could have possibly been older when I got them, live for a year.

As for changes to your tank, I'd suggest adding a substrate (gravel or sand). You could leave it bare-bottom though. You could add some more fake plants. That may help him feel more at home.

Your betta looks fairly colourful to me. Your tank is still cycling, correct? That may have something to do with his color lightening up. Your light should be on no longer than actual day light hours (fish do sleep). Since you don't have live plants, I'd suggest leaving the light on for 8 hours if you must.

I didn't notice if anyone had commented on your water changes. It's a larger tank than he had, but that doesn't mean less frequent water changes. I'd suggest 20% water changes weekly, instead of 2-3 weeks, which I think you said.

I'm curious about the spots and holes you mentioned appearing on his fins. Could you post a picture of that?

[ikermalli]

I will post the pictures soon but for now my camera is gone, into the depths of my sisters purse, I will definitely get more plants and gravel. Also I don't keep the light on at night because somebody said they don't have eyelids. I took out the tetras from his tank and turned off the light all day and he seems alot more active right now, do you think I could make my tank into a double, as in putting a divider down the middle? Also if you think I can could you tell me where to buy those? His colour seemed to darken up a little bit, maybe it doesn't like too much but when I put it in the light his colour didn't seem to darken quite that much

[Ichthius]

It's possible to divide his tank. I'd personally have just one betta in that size of a tank, but others would probably tell you it's fine. 2.5g is small, but ok. You could probably get a divider at a local pet store or fish store.

I wouldn't recommend getting the divider and another betta until you're tank is fully cycled and you're sure this one is healthy.

[ikermalli]

how do I know when my tank is fully cycled?

[Ichthius]

You need to get a water test kit. You can get one at a pet store or fish store. The kit should measure ammonia, nitrate, and nitrite levels in your tank. When your tank is cycled, there should be no ammonia or nitrite. Your nitrate levels should be under 40ppm to be safe for your fish.

This usually happens within about 2 weeks in freshwater tanks, given the right things happen.

[ikermalli]

okay, thanks I will definitely get a water test kit