Question

[Mkeuper6361]

Am a starter at aquariums, 12 gal and a 1 gal, an I was wondering why exactly do I need a heater? I live in Texas

 

[Mkeuper6361]

I have tropical fish and my room temp is 74ish (a bit more) I told my mom I need one but she says no. It's 56ish outside because it's fall but my tank isn't near a window. Texas isn't always cold so can my fish survive or do I need one?

 

[ddodad]

It all depends on your stock for example GBRs really need water temp 78-86 while most rainbows do well in the mid to low 70s

 

[jehenry89]

Regardless of where you live, with tropical fish, you should always have a heater in my opinion. You never know. Although, I am not even 100% sure if you can get a heater for a tank as small as 1 gallon but for sure with the 12gallon. You can get them for under $15 dollars at petco and petsmart.

 

[ddodad]

Regardless of where you live, with tropical fish, you should always have a heater in my opinion. You never know.

You are right I made a mistake on my response a heater will keep the water at a steady temp which is much less stressful on the fish

 

[Mkeuper6361]

In my 1 gallon tank is a beta fish... He is the easiest thing in the world! I'm pretty sure he might boil with a heater lol! I'm concerned about the 12 gallon one. The fish that are in there aren't hard to me. I will post some pictures of the fish I have then tell me if they need a heater.

 

[jehenry89]

If you can, try to upgrade the betta tank to a 5 gallon. Although the pet stores keep them in 10oz containers, they really can thrive in a small 5 gallon tank and will be much happier/less stressed.
Just a thought

 

[ddodad]

If you can, try to upgrade the betta tank to a 5 gallon. Although the pet stores keep them in 10oz containers, they really can thrive in a small 5 gallon tank and will be much happier/less stressed.

+1 IMO a 1 gallon is only good for snails or a temporary betta home

 

[Mkeuper6361]

I might... I have the Beta in a 1 gallon and he seems just fine. I don't have ANY other fish with him. I have a small log and a tiny tiny tiny tree

 

[jehenry89]

Just some food for thought! Not saying you have to but maybe somewhere down the line.

 

[Mkeuper6361]

Thanks for the help!