There are a few things to keep in mind when trying to have Bettas co-exist with other fish or invertebrates. The first is that the Betta must have enough space. A ten gallon tank is the minimum, but twenty gallons is even better. The second thing to remember is that Bettas are territorial and will chase away other fish that they see as a threat. Finally, Bettas are predators and may try to eat smaller fish or invertebrates.
With these things in mind, there are still some species of fish and invertebrates that can co-exist with Bettas. Some good examples of compatible fish includes:
CLOWN PLECO
The Clown Pleco is a small, peaceful fish that is perfect for a Betta tank. They are brown or black with white spots and only grow to be about two inches long. Clown Plecos are bottom dwellers and will help keep the tank clean. These fish do best in groups of three or more, so if you have a ten gallon tank, you can add two or three Clown Plecos.
FEEDER GUPPIES
A good option for those looking to add some color to their Betta tank without having to worry about the Betta attacking or eating them. Guppies are also relatively easy to care for and can be a good beginner fish. Be sure to get a sexed pair of FEEDER GUPPIES, as they will constantly breed and you will quickly end up with too many fish in your tank.
HARLEQUIN RASBORAS
A good choice for tank mates with Bettas. They are peaceful fish that get along well with other species. HARLEQUIN RASBORAS are also relatively small, so they are not seen as a threat by the Betta. However, it is important to remember that HARLEQUIN RASBORAS need to be in a group of at least six fish in order to be happy and healthy. Therefore, if you are adding HARLEQUIN RASBORAS to a tank that already has a Betta, make sure to add at least six HARLEQUIN RASBORAS to the tank. Another good choice for a Betta
LOACHES
bottom dwelling fish that are relatively small and non-threatening. They are also fast swimmers which means they can escape the notice of the Betta. However, it is important to remember that LOACHES require a lot of hiding places in their tank so that they feel safe. Be sure to provide plenty of rocks, plants, and driftwood for them to hide in.
PYGMY CORYDORA
They are peaceful and non-threatening, and they can help keep the tank clean. PYGMY CORYDORA are also small enough that they are not likely to be eaten by the Betta.
TETRAS
They are peaceful fish that get along well with other fish. TETRAS are also small enough that they are not a threat to the Betta. However, TETRAS are not recommended for beginners because they require special care and attention.
WHITE CLOUD MOUNTAIN MINNOWS
They are fast and agile, so they can avoid being chased by the Betta. They are also too small to be seen as a threat by the Betta. WHITE CLOUD MOUNTAIN MINNOWS are a peaceful fish that will add some color and activity to the tank.
Another good choice for a Betta tank mate is an INVERTEBRATE. Shrimp, snails, and crabs are all safe to keep with Bettas. They are not fast enough to be chased by the Betta and they are too small to be seen as a threat. Invertebrates are also a good source of food for the Betta.
GHOST SHRIMP
An invertebrate that can safely co-exist with Bettas. GHOST SHRIMP are very small and fast, so they can avoid being eaten by the Betta. They are also good at hiding, so they can stay out of the Betta’s territory. GHOST SHRIMP are a peaceful invertebrate that will add some color and activity to the tank.
MYSTERY SNAILS
Species that can co-exist with Bettas. MYSTERY SNAILS are actually helpful to have in the tank because they eat algae and dead plants. MYSTERY SNAILS are slow moving, so they may be chased by the Betta, but they are too big to be eaten.
RED CLAWED CRAB
Another species that can co-exist with Bettas. These crabs are not aggressive and will usually stay out of the way of the Betta. They are also a good source of food for the Betta, so they can help keep the tank clean. Just be sure to get RED CLAWED CRAB that are small enough that they can’t hurt the Betta.
If you’re thinking about adding some Bettas to your tank, remember to give them enough space and to choose compatible tank mates. With a little bit of planning, you can have a beautiful and peaceful aquarium that everyone can enjoy. Thanks for reading! I hope this was helpful. 🙂
