Prospective betta buyers -- I have a question for you?
This is strictly out of curiousity, but I've been thinking about typing up a care sheet that describes the *proper* care for bettas and placing them at pet stores (With their permission, of course).
So, you're looking for a betta, and you come across a care sheet. Information would include their natural habitat, and keeping info -- the fact that they *need* 5+ gallons of water, a heater that keeps their tank at 78-84*F, some form of filtration OR a strict water changing schedule, and that they do NOT live in puddles. You've also heard the common myths that include "Bettas don't like big spaces," "Bettas aren't tropical fish," "Bettas live in puddles," and "Bettas have to be kept alone."
So, despite the fact that the information on the sheet is true, would you believe it and keep your new betta (Or existing betta) accordingly?
It is a very good idea & worthy initiative, but you need to get past the stores first who are responsible for perpetuating a lot of the misinformation in the first place. Also people may not believe information from an 'unproven' source, it'll have more effect & credibility if such a care sheet is issued or endorsed by a reputable fish magazine, major manufacturer (not all of them are money-grubbing unethical con men) or national/regional association (is there something like a National Betta Association at your location?).
In the mean time you could get more opinions & ideas from other responsible betta owners & draft out the care sheet; many heads are better than one. Actually maybe some sensible fish stores would be receptive to the idea but do not have the time or manpower to prepare such care sheets, so they may be more than happy to have someone volunteer to help. Good luck!
How to take care of your Betta fish
