Betta Fish Tank Mates

 

Are you considering bringing in some new companions to share the space with your betta fish? Well, you’ve landed in the right spot. This detailed guide will give you all the information you’ll need to select the perfect betta fish tank mates. We’ll dive into compatibility, address safety issues, and provide a list of top options that will transform your betta tank into a vibrant and thriving community.

 

Betta Fish Tank Mates

 

Betta Fish With Other Fish

Before we get into potential betta fish tank mates, let’s discuss why bettas have earned a reputation for being solitary. Betta fish are also called Siamese fighting fish. They didn’t get this nickname by accident. In their natural habitat, male bettas can be quite territorial and aggressive towards other males. But here’s an interesting twist: in a thoughtfully arranged aquarium setting, bettas can coexist peacefully with other species.

Setting Up Your Betta Community Tank

Before diving headfirst into selecting betta fish tank mates, it’s crucial to ensure that your betta tank setup is just right. Forget those myths about bettas being content in tiny bowls. For a community tank setup where multiple species will coexist, you’re looking at needing at least a 20-gallon aquarium. This makes sure everyone has ample space to swim around and establish their own little territories. Only consider adding betta fish tank mates if you have the right tank size.

Creating the Perfect Environment

  • Plenty of plants (whether live or silk) to provide hiding spots
  • Smooth decorations to avoid any fin damage
  • A gentle filter system to keep water quality pristine
  • A heater set between 75-80°F (24-27°C) for optimal conditions and good water quality

 

The Best Betta Fish Tank Mates

Now comes the exciting part! Let’s check out some excellent companions for your betta fish.

 

Betta Fish Tank Mates Guide

Betta fish tank mates guide

 

Peaceful Community Fish

1. Cory Catfish

Cory Catfish

Cory Catfish

Scientific Name: Corydoras
Color: Bronze
Tank Size: 10 gallons or more

  • These little bottom-dwellers tend to keep a low profile, minding their own business
  • They are rather adorable and quite active scavengers, always on the lookout for food scraps
  •  It’s almost essential to keep them in groups of six or more for their happiness

 

2. Harlequin Rasboras

Harlequin Rasboras

Harlequin Rasboras

Scientific Name: Trigonostigma heteromorpha
Color: Distinct black triangle, orange to pink body and red-colored fins
Tank Size: 10 gallons or more

  • Exceptionally colorful schooling fish that brighten up any tank
  • Interestingly enough, they share the same natural environment as bettas
  • Peaceful and non-aggressive, they won’t bother other tank mates

 

3. Neon Tetras

Neon Tetras

Neon Tetras

Scientific Name: Paracheirodon Innesi
Color: Neon silver blue with red neon stripe
Tank Size: 10 gallons or more

  • Their bright and vivid colors are truly eye-catching
  • Typically school in the middle area of the aquarium
  • Small in size and pose no threat whatsoever to bettas

 

Invertebrate Choices

1. Nerite Snails

Nerite Snails

Nerite Snail

Scientific Name: Neritina sp.
Color: Black, dark brown, dark green, olive green, tan, golden and reddish brown
Tank Size: 10 gallons or more

  • Excellent at consuming algae, which helps keep your betta tank clean
  • Come in an array of patterns and colors that add visual interest
  • Interestingly, they can’t reproduce in freshwater environments

 

2. Amano Shrimp

Amano Shrimp

Amano Shrimp

Scientific Name: Caridina multidentata
Color: Translucent, either brown or tan
Tank Size: 10 gallons or more

  • Larger shrimp that are less likely to be seen as a snack by other fish
  • Very good at cleaning up leftover food bits and algae
  • They are active creatures that can be quite entertaining to watch

 

Plants Suitable for Bettas

Here are some plants that are well-suited for betta fish tanks:

 

Best Live Plants for Betta Fish

Best live plants for your betta tank

 

  1. Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus): This hardy, low-light plant is ideal for beginners. It can be attached to driftwood or rocks and doesn’t require substrate.
  2. Anubias (Anubias barteri): Another low-light, easy-to-care-for plant that can be attached to decors. Its broad leaves provide resting spots for bettas.
  3. Marimo Moss Ball (Aegagropila linnaei): These unique, spherical algae are actually not plants, but are popular, low-maintenance addition to betta tanks.
  4. Amazon Sword (Echinodorus amazonicus): A tall, sturdy plant that’s perfect for background planting. It tolerates a range of lighting conditions.
  5. Java Moss (Vesicularia dubyana): A versatile, fast-growing moss that can be attached to decors or left floating. It provides shelter and helps maintain water quality.
  6. Cryptocoryne (Cryptocoryne wendtii): A hardy, low-light plant that comes in various leaf shapes and colors. It’s a slow grower, but adds a beautiful touch to the tank.

Remember to choose plants that are suitable for your tank size, lighting and water conditions. Avoid any plants with sharp edges that could damage your betta’s delicate fins.

 

Betta Fish Tank Mates to Avoid

Some fish just don’t mix well with bettas. It’s better to avoid:

  • Fin nippers like Tiger Barbs
  • Aggressive species like Cichlids
  • Fish with long, flowing fins that may be mistaken for other bettas

 

It's important to avoid housing bettas with fish that have long, flowing fins similar to their own, such as guppies or angelfish, as the betta may mistake them for another betta and become aggressive

 

 Tips for a Successful Community Tank

  1. Introduce Your Betta Last: Add your betta after all betta fish tank mates have had time to settle into their new home.
  2. Monitor Behavior: Keep an eye out for any signs of stress or aggression during those first few weeks.
  3. Provide Plenty of Hiding Spots: Make sure there are ample places where all fish can hide if necessary.
  4. Maintain Water Quality: Regular water changes and testing are really important for keeping everyone healthy.
  5. Feed a Varied Diet: Offer different types of foods so every species gets what it needs nutritionally.

 Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with meticulous planning and betta maintenance, you might encounter some bumps along the way. But here’s how you can manage them:

Aggression Problems

If your betta fish is chasing or nipping at others:

  1. Rearrange the tank decor slightly to disrupt established territories
  2.  Add more plants or hiding spots
  3.  Consider removing the betta if its behavior doesn’t improve over time

Stress Signs

Look out for:

  • Clamped fins
  • Loss of color
  • Hiding more than usual

If these signs appear, check your water parameters immediately and see if the tank is too crowded.

 

Just Keep Swimming

A friendly reminder from your betta fish tank mates

 

Creating a successful community tank with a betta fish is totally doable with the right preparation and knowledge. Remember, every fish has its own personality, so what works for one might not work for another. Be patient, observe and don’t be afraid to make changes if needed. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beautiful, harmonious betta tank that both you and your betta fish will love. Happy betta fishkeeping!

Got more time? Discover more tips about betta fish care or learn about betta fish history.