There are so many flaws in the design of this tank. Really, just get a large fish tank, a pump, and some grow cups with medium and I'm sure you could build something... so much betta.
Here are the issues I experienced, which ultimately led to the premature death (only two months after purchase) of my beloved betta fish, Rufish Rainwright:
- The grow medium, being partially submerged in a very small, humid enclosure, is subject to fungus / mold (at least, they didn't include any instructions on how to prevent fungus growth, such as changing the medium - I saw instructions for washing the grow stones, which I did). I'm certain the grey fungus that grew in my medium is exactly what spread to my Betta's fins and eventually covered his whole body.
- The 3-gallon tank is really too small for the fish to live a tolerable life - a stressed fish is way more prone to disease! Bettas need at least a 5-gallon space to be at equilibrium.
- There is no heater included with this setup, I had to buy a small one separately. Bettas are a tropical fish and need water between 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The noise and velocity of the water coming from the top can add stress for bettas. They like very quiet, calm water, so a whisper filter is really what they need.
- "Self-cleaning" is a lie. This tank needs to be changed AT LEAST once every two weeks, perhaps you can stretch it if you add a couple of snails, which I did. There is no mechanical filter, and roots are not enough of a filter to…