My first betta - general advice please!

[shellonabeach]

Thanks guys for your help, Kevin is now installed in his proper home and looks much happier I did read this thread before I went out this morning but didn't have time to reply..

I got him an 11 litre tank, a fake plant (it's soft so shouldn't hurt his tail) a ceramic treasure chest to hide in and gravel for the bottom. They did have a really nice looking bowl but I know that bowls are not recommended for goldies so didn't think Kevin would want one either!

In the UK tap water is suitable for drinking, I used aged tap water for him both times - it stood in a bucket for 24 hours and was room temp.

For feeding I haven't been able to find betta food. When I bought him I was told he was being fed "tetra prima" and the tub says for mid-level or bottom feeders and that it helps promote bright colour. I crush this into smaller pieces for him and it sinks to the bottom (he eats it on the way down!). I have looked in 2 more stores today for some betta food.

I really didn't know he couldn't live with a female and I won't bother getting any other fish to live with him, one is enough!