All set up, except..think I did it wrong.

[BettyBetta]

I had my tank going for for a couple of weeks now. Except I had an air stone and a few tetras in it as scout fish.
Luis, as you recommened, I added the sponge filter. But to add that I removed the air stone. Only I think I did it it wrong. Should the tube to filter be below the water level or above. Right now its above, consequently not enough air for the tetra, didn't survive.
The water seemed peaceful, temp was good. Our fish (HamSushi) was added on Thursday. He seems to be quite content. Swims alot, eats like a piggy (hence the name and loves to be photographed).
I'm don't feel right about the sponge filter, should I lower the tube?
I also added a Java Moss plant. Looks nice.
I've posted a pic of our new fish on this site. Let me if I need to change anything.
Thanks a million fellow Betta lovers!!

[BettaLu&Meg]

The Tube from the filter should be below the water level. this allows oxigen to be trappen and release thru the tube. also an air stone wouldn't hurt if put by the filter. what size tank do you have again? hopefully the sponge filter you have is compatable for the size tank you have. did you research it? theres different size sponges you can purchase for different tank sizes. But like i said the tube has to be submerged in the water! Where's the picture you have in the forum?
Remember also about the feeding that you have to give him a variety of foods.
Pellets and Flakes should be there set diet and bloodworms and brine shrimp are for treats here and there. 3-4 pellets should be given per feeding and presoaked before put in with your betta. Presaoking it softens, and hydrates the pellets making it alot easier to consume by your betta. Also the flakes should be served by the pinch. Now any excess food should be removed after 5 min. it ususally takes them about 5 min to eat then there full. Failure to remove any excess food and lead to poor water qualitiy, overfeeding (making them get sick), and bacteria blooms.
Also know that you have a filter you only have to do a 40-50% water change once a week and replacing it with conditioned water.

[BettaLu&Meg]

If i didn't answer you question correctly please let me know!

[bettalvr]

Not knowing what kind of sponge filter you're using or the tube size, this may not work for you, but it may. To diffuse the water and keep it from being more bubbly than I like, I will oftentimes put the air stone on the air lines, then into the tube. I do have valve adjusters, but sometimes I just like the looks of the softer bubbles. LOL I have cut my tubes to custom fit my tanks . . . and I always put the cut end into the holder and the smooth part at the top, otherwise it could do horrible damage to the fish if they swim by and hit it.

[wiccansinger]

umm, i know this may sound dumb and i dont want to sound mean, but, to filter water im pretty sure the filter has to be in the water... on a lighter note, goodluck on ur new betta!!!

[BettaLu&Meg]

yes betty definitly under water level

[bettalvr]

Shortening the tube for the filter will allow you to filter water at just about any level. Has worked great for me. Top of the tube needs to be below your waterline. Good luck. I know you'll figure it out and get your setup like you want it and it needs to be.

[BettaLu&Meg]

Definitly let us know how its progressing, and if you can post some pics of your new family member!!!

[BettyBetta]

Ok, the filter. Yes, the filter is UNDER the water, the tube wasn't in, had to cut it down. Bettalvr, thanks for the tip on inserting the cut side down.
Otherwise, our littl guy seems to be doing well (crossing her fingers). Eating like a pig, swimming, swimming, swimming. Bubbles everywhere!
Thanks everyone for the help, this site has been wonderful! I did post some pics in the photo section. He should be under HamSushi. Thanks again!

[BettaLu&Meg]

No problem, remember feeding 2x a day, with a variety of foods!! (flakes and pellets) you don't want to give me and upset stomach of swimm bladder disorder or constipation Good luck!