What Fish Do Bettas Get Along With?

Betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are popular pets due to their vibrant colors and long fins. However, it is essential to choose tankmates carefully to ensure a harmonious environment for your betta and other fish. In this article, we will discuss which fish are compatible with bettas and provide a comprehensive fish compatibility guide.

Understanding the Nature of Bettas

Betta fish are known for their territorial behavior and aggression towards other males. They have elaborate fin displays and will engage in fierce battles if kept with other bettas. However, with proper care and compatible tankmates, bettas can thrive in a community tank.

Best Fish Companions for Bettas

1. Peaceful Community Fish

When choosing tankmates for bettas, it is important to select peaceful and non-aggressive fish. Some suitable options include:

• Tetras (such as neon tetras or ember tetras)
• Guppies
• Platies
• Mollies
• Corydoras catfish
• Otocinclus catfish

These fish are generally compatible with bettas and can coexist peacefully in the same tank. However, it is important to monitor their interactions and be prepared to separate them if any aggression occurs.

2. Bottom-Dwelling Fish

Another option is to choose bottom-dwelling fish that occupy a different part of the tank. This helps minimize territorial conflicts and reduce the chance of aggression. Suitable bottom-dwelling companions for bettas include:

• Snails
• Shrimp (such as cherry shrimp or amano shrimp)
• Corydoras catfish
• Kuhli loaches

These fish and invertebrates help keep the tank clean by eating leftover food and algae. However, keep in mind that bettas may still display some level of aggression towards bottom-dwelling species, so it’s important to monitor their behavior.

Avoid These Fish as Tankmates

While bettas can coexist with certain fish species, there are others that should be avoided as tankmates:

• Male bettas: Male bettas should never be kept together, as they will fight relentlessly.
• Aggressive fish: Avoid fish known for their aggressiveness, such as tiger barbs or larger cichlids.
• Fish with long, flowing fins: Fish with similar long fins, such as fancy guppies or angelfish, may trigger aggression in bettas.

Remember, each fish has its own personality, and individual bettas may show different levels of tolerance towards other species. It is essential to observe their behavior and be ready to make changes if needed.

Conclusion

Choosing the right tankmates for your betta fish is crucial for a harmonious aquarium environment. Opt for peaceful community fish and bottom-dwelling species that do not trigger aggression in bettas. Avoid keeping male bettas together or mixing them with aggressive or long-finned fish. By understanding the nature of bettas and selecting compatible companions, you can create a thriving community tank that showcases the beauty of these stunning fish.