Bettas just survive in a bowl. They should be placed in at least a 2.5 gal tank that is heated and filtered. Most Bettas just turn lethargic after a few months in cold room temp water.


Bettas are aggressive and territorial by nature and are related to gourami's = not a good mix in such a small space.


As for the platies, that rule is if you want them to breed. If you just have a pair, the male will stress the one female out. You need at least 2 females per one male so the aggression of the male can be spread out between the two. If you want platies just get two females. Chances are you might get them already carrying babies. No worries since the parents or other tankmates usually end up eating most of the fry if there is not enough cover or if they are not separated/removed.

On last bit of advise... do not overcrowd/stock your tank. The less and smaller the fish, the better. Do not buy fish as an impulse buy because, "They are so pretty." Go to your local fish store, see what you like, write down their names, and then read up on what they're requierments are before you throw them in the tank.



Good choice on the Eclipse system 12. :thumbup: Does it have a single or twin bulb setup?

Here's a pic of my tank with the same eclipse hood you are using. It was originally a system 12 also but the tank leaked so i just put the hood on a 10 gal tank.



If you need anymore help let me know, or check out the fish forums on the sites i previously listed.... they have all the info you need.

Good luck and post up a pic of the progress.