Freshwater Aquarium/Stinky plant?

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Expert: Christy - 10/3/2008


Question
Hi, I've had a little betta in a one gallon tank for about 6 weeks. I gave him another plastic plant today (he already has one that he likes), but it has made the water smell like plastic. He's scared of it because it's new, but beyond that I'm just concerned that the smell is indicative of something toxic. Should it be removed? Also, how much and how often should I be changing his water? I do 60% changes about 4 times a week right now. But I've started to worry that is too much.

Thanks!

Answer
Hi Beth
If you're worried about the plant, I would remove it then.  Especially if he's not fond of it at the moment either.  Make sure the plants aren't sharp as well, some of the plastic plants do have sharp edges that's bad for betta fins.  Silk or live plants is best with them.

I would be doing about a 50% change every other day or so. So, you're schedule sounds fine.  Just be sure to keep the new water temp as close as possible to what he's in to avoid any shock to him.  You really can't do too many water changes.  Take care of the water, and the fish basically takes care of himself-to keep healthy anyway.  

Hope that helps and good luck with him!

Christy

Freshwater Aquarium

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Christy

Expertise

I can answer some questions regarding freshwater fish ranging from their care to diagnosing common diseases or problems with the fish. I can also answer questions regarding the care and maintenance of an aquarium. I haven't had much luck with live plants, so can't help in that area very much. Not real good with explaining salt water or brackish set ups too well either. Also regarding goldfish, I have some comets, and have a little experience with them but mostly just general info on them. I AM NOT THAT FAMILIAR WITH ANY OF THE FANCY VARIETIES OF GOLDFISH. YOU MIGHT BE BETTER DIRECTING THOSE QUERIES TO AN EXPERT MORE FAMILIAR WITH THEM. If I can't answer or don't know something, I'll let you know, so don't be upset if I reject your question, I'll always explain why. I would just rather not answer then give an answer I'm not confident about.

Experience

All personal, first hand, general fishkeeping experience. I've had fresh water aquariums now for about 7 years. I've had tropical/community fish tanks, African cichlids, South American cichlids, brackish water puffer fish, and a lot of other varieties in between.

Education/Credentials
None, all personal experience

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