Page 1 of 2
Betta fish and tank mates: myths
Posted: Thu Jun 26, 2025 4:08 pm
by wilde
I've heard so many conflicting things about keeping bettas with other fish. Some say they're aggressive, others say they're fine with certain tank mates. What's your experience?
Re: Betta fish and tank mates: myths
Posted: Thu Jun 26, 2025 6:04 pm
by florans
It's kinda wild how much misinformation is out there. My betta's chill with neon tetras, but I've seen others go full rage mode. Guess it depends on the fish's personality, ya know?
Re: Betta fish and tank mates: myths
Posted: Thu Jun 26, 2025 7:54 pm
by Tealux
The key is tank size and setup. A 10-gallon with plenty of hiding spots can work for peaceful species like harlequin rasboras. Avoid fin-nippers like tiger barbs, though. Also, monitor behavior closely for the first few days.
Re: Betta fish and tank mates: myths
Posted: Thu Jun 26, 2025 9:06 pm
by Silvan
Yeah, my dude's cool with snails and shrimp, but I tried a guppy once and it was a disaster. Some bettas just ain't having it, lol.
Re: Betta fish and tank mates: myths
Posted: Thu Jun 26, 2025 10:59 pm
by flintx
Tealux wrote: ↑Thu Jun 26, 2025 7:54 pm
The key is tank size and setup. A 10-gallon with plenty of hiding spots can work for peaceful species like harlequin rasboras. Avoid fin-nippers like tiger barbs, though. Also, monitor behavior closely for the first few days.
Totally agree. I've had success with corydoras in a 15-gallon, but only after introducing the betta last. It's all about territory.
Re: Betta fish and tank mates: myths
Posted: Fri Jun 27, 2025 12:55 am
by Rushi
My betta's in a 5-gallon solo, but I've been thinking about adding a few shrimp. Anyone got tips for making sure they don't become snacks?
Re: Betta fish and tank mates: myths
Posted: Fri Jun 27, 2025 2:02 am
by silentfox
Shrimp can work if you provide enough cover. Java moss or driftwood helps. Start with larger shrimp like amanos, and avoid cherries unless your betta's super mellow.
Re: Betta fish and tank mates: myths
Posted: Fri Jun 27, 2025 3:05 am
by cora
I've seen bettas that ignore everything and others that hunt down snails. It's so unpredictable. Maybe try a divider first to test the waters?
Re: Betta fish and tank mates: myths
Posted: Fri Jun 27, 2025 4:03 am
by wilde
Thanks for the input, everyone. Sounds like it's really case by case. I'll start with a bigger tank and see how it goes.
Re: Betta fish and tank mates: myths
Posted: Fri Jun 27, 2025 5:38 am
by florans
Silvan wrote: ↑Thu Jun 26, 2025 9:06 pm
Yeah, my dude's cool with snails and shrimp, but I tried a guppy once and it was a disaster. Some bettas just ain't having it, lol.
Guppies are sketchy, man. Too flashy for most bettas. Stick to duller fish if you're gonna try tank mates.