Are you thinking of adding some tank mates to your betta’s aquarium? Choosing the right companions can be tricky, but it’s worth it to create a harmonious and thriving underwater community. Betta fish have unique personalities and needs, so it’s essential to pick tank mates that will get along with them. In this article, we’ll dive into the best tank mates for betta fish and share expert tips on how to create a peaceful and engaging aquarium.
What About Other Bettas?
- Males cannot live with female betta, except for breeding.
- Females can live with other females in a sorority.
- Males and females should be separated after breeding.
Choosing Betta Fish Mates?
Choosing the right tankmates for your betta fish requires careful consideration. While betta fish can thrive alone, compatible tankmates can enhance their environment. However, incompatible species can lead to stress, fin nipping, and even disease.
Compatibility Factors:
Temperament
Betta fish are known for their complex and unique personalities, which can be territorial, aggressive, fin-nippy, and curious. They defend their territory from other betta fish and sometimes other species, and can be aggressive towards other betta fish, especially males. Their fin-nippy behavior can be a problem for tankmates with long, flowing fins, and their curiosity can lead to stress or agitation if their environment is not suitable.
To manage your betta’s temperament, provide a suitable environment with plenty of hiding places and visual barriers to reduce stress and aggression. Introduce tankmates slowly and under close observation to prevent territorial disputes and monitor behavior for signs of aggression or stress.
Avoid overcrowding, as this can exacerbate territorial behavior and stress in betta fish. By understanding and managing your betta fish’s temperament, you can create a harmonious and thriving aquarium environment.
Swimming Level: Understanding Betta Fish Swimming Habits
Betta fish are surface dwellers and spend most of their time near the water’s surface. They have a unique respiratory system that allows them to breathe air from the surface, and they tend to hover just below the surface or swim in the top third of the tank.
When choosing tankmates, it’s essential to consider their swimming level to ensure compatibility. Here are some guidelines:
- Avoid pairing with other surface-dwelling species, as they may compete for food, territory, or air.
- Pair with mid-water or bottom-dwelling species, as they occupy different swimming levels and reduce competition.
- Be cautious with active swimmers, as they may disturb the betta’s calm nature or compete for resources.
By considering the swimming level of your betta fish and potential tankmates, you can create a harmonious and thriving aquarium environment.
Water Parameters: Understanding Betta Fish Water Requirements_
Betta fish are adapted to thrive in specific water conditions, and it’s crucial to match these conditions when introducing tankmates. Here are some key water parameters to consider:
- Temperature: Betta fish prefer warm water between 76°F (24°C) and 82°F (28°C). Avoid pairing with species that require significantly different temperatures.
- pH: Betta fish tolerate a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. Avoid pairing with species that require drastically different pH levels.
- Hardness: Betta fish prefer soft to moderately hard water, with a water hardness of 5-15 dGH. Avoid pairing with species that require very hard or soft water.
- Water flow: Betta fish prefer calm or slow-moving water, with minimal currents. Avoid pairing with species that require strong water flow or currents.
When introducing tankmates, ensure they can tolerate the same water parameters as your betta fish. Research the specific needs of potential tankmates to prevent stress, disease, or even death due to incompatible water conditions.
Size: Understanding Betta Fish Size Compatibility
Betta fish come in various sizes, but most are relatively small, ranging from 2 to 5 inches (5-13 cm) in length. When choosing tankmates, it’s essential to consider size compatibility to prevent predation, competition, or stress.
Here are some guidelines:
- Avoid pairing with significantly larger species, as they may see the betta as food or prey.
- Avoid pairing with significantly smaller species, as the betta may see them as food or harass them.
- Pair with species of similar size or slightly larger, as they are less likely to be seen as prey or competitors.
However, remember that size is not the only factor, and temperament, swimming level, and water parameters should also be considered.
Some examples of compatible tankmates based on size:
- Neon tetras (1-2 inches / 2.5-5 cm)
- Harlequin rasboras (1-2 inches / 2.5-5 cm)
- Corydoras catfish (2-3 inches / 5-7.5 cm)
Pro Tip: Don’t Overcrowd! Increase Water Volume for Happy Tankmates!
When adding tankmates to your betta’s home, remember: more friends = more water!
- Add 1-2 gallons (3.8-7.6 liters) for small tankmates (like neon tetras or harlequin rasboras)
- Add 2-4 gallons (7.6-15.1 liters) for medium tankmates (like corydoras catfish or dwarf gouramis)
- Add 4-6 gallons (15.1-22.7 liters) for larger tankmates (like angelfish or discus)
Feeding Habits: Understanding Betta Fish Dietary Needs
Betta fish are carnivores and have specific dietary needs. They require a diet rich in protein from animal sources, such as:
- Brine shrimp
- Bloodworms
- Daphnia
- Commercial betta pellets or flakes
When choosing tankmates, consider their feeding habits to ensure compatibility:
- Avoid pairing with species that compete for food, such as fin-nipping fish that may steal food from the betta.
- Pair with species that have different feeding habits, such as bottom-dwellers that eat algae or detritus.
- Ensure tankmates are not aggressive eaters, as they may intimidate the betta during feeding time.
Some examples of compatible tankmates based on feeding habits:
- Corydoras catfish (bottom-dwellers that eat algae and detritus)
- Neon tetras (schooling fish that eat small insects and plankton)
- Harlequin rasboras (peaceful fish that eat small insects and commercial flakes)
Best Betta Tank Mates
1. Corydoras Catfish
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Corydoras spp.
- Adult Size: 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Compatibility: Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Easy
- Water Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: South America
- Swimming Level: Bottom-dweller
About the Species:
Corydoras Catfish, or Cory Cats, are gentle and peaceful bottom-dwellers that make great tankmates for betta fish. They’re small, armored catfish that feed on small invertebrates and plant matter, helping to keep the tank clean. With their calm nature and small size, they won’t compete with your betta for food or attention.
They’re also social creatures that thrive in schools, so keep them in groups of 6-10 or more for optimal happiness. Provide them with a sandy substrate and plenty of hiding places, such as plants, rocks, or driftwood, and they’ll spend their days scavenging for food and taking naps in their favorite hiding spots.
As they’re nocturnal, they’ll be most active at night, but they’ll still entertain you with their adorable antics during the day. With proper care and attention, Cory Cats can live up to 5 years or more in captivity, making them a wonderful long-term companion for your betta.
2. Platys
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Xiphophorus maculatus
- Adult Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Compatibility: Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Easy
- Water Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: Central and South America
- Swimming Level: Mid-water
About the Species:
Platys are peaceful and active swimmers that make great additions to community tanks. They’re small, colorful fish that come in a variety of fin shapes and colors. Platys are easy to care for and can thrive in small schools.
They’re also prolific breeders, so be prepared for fry (baby fish) if you keep males and females together. Provide them with plenty of hiding places and plants to explore. With proper care, Platys can live up to 3-5 years in captivity.
3. Harlequin Rasbora
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Trigonostigma heteromorpha
- Adult Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Compatibility: Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Easy
- Water Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Swimming Level: Mid-water
About the Species:
Harlequin Rasboras are active, peaceful swimmers that add a pop of color to community tanks. They’re small, shoaling fish that thrive in groups of 6-10 or more. Harlequin Rasboras are easy to care for and can tolerate minor changes in water conditions.
They’re also curious and love to explore, so provide them with plenty of plants and decorations. With proper care, Harlequin Rasboras can live up to 5-7 years in captivity. They’re a great choice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike!
4. Cardinal Tetra
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Paracheirodon axelrodi
- Adult Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Compatibility: Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Moderate
- Water Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: South America
- Swimming Level: Mid-water
About the Species:
Cardinal Tetras are small, schooling fish that add a splash of color and energy to community tanks. They’re native to the clear waters of South America and prefer well-oxygenated water with a moderate current.
In the wild, they school in large groups, so it’s best to keep them in a group of at least 6-10 in the aquarium. Cardinal Tetras are sensitive to water conditions, so regular water changes and monitoring of water parameters are crucial. They’re also prone to fin nipping, so avoid keeping them with fin-nipping fish like tiger barbs.
With proper care and attention, Cardinal Tetras can live up to 5-7 years in captivity, making them a wonderful addition to a well-maintained community tank.
5. Neon Tetra
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Paracheirodon innesi
- Adult Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Compatibility: Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Moderate
- Water Temperature: 68-78°F (20-25°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: South America
- Swimming Level: Mid-water
About the Species:
Neon Tetras are one of the most iconic and beloved freshwater aquarium fish. They’re small, schooling fish that thrive in groups of 10-15 or more. In the wild, they inhabit the dark, acidic waters of South America, so they prefer dimly lit tanks with plenty of plants and driftwood. Neon Tetras are sensitive to water conditions and can be prone to disease, so regular water changes and monitoring of water parameters are crucial.
They’re also nocturnal, so they’ll be most active at night, but they’ll still entertain you with their iridescent blue and red stripes during the day. With proper care and attention, Neon Tetras can live up to 5-8 years in captivity, making them a wonderful addition to a well-maintained community tank.
They’re also very active swimmers, so be sure to provide them with plenty of open space to dart around.
6. Ember Tetra
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon amandae
- Adult Size: 0.5-1.5 inches (1.3-3.8 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 5 gallons (19 liters)
- Compatibility: Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Easy
- Water Temperature: 68-78°F (20-25°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: South America
- Swimming Level: Mid-water
About the Species:
Ember Tetras are small, peaceful fish that add a burst of color and energy to community tanks. They’re native to the warm, acidic waters of South America and prefer well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding places.
Ember Tetras are easy to care for and can thrive in small schools of 6-10 or more. They’re also very active swimmers, so be sure to provide them with plenty of open space to dart around.
One of the unique characteristics of Ember Tetras is their ability to change color depending on their mood and environment – they can shift from a bright orange to a deeper red. With proper care and attention, Ember Tetras can live up to 5-7 years in captivity, making them a wonderful addition to a well-maintained community tank.
7. Rummy Nose Tetra
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Hemigrammus rhodostomus
- Adult Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Compatibility: Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Moderate
- Water Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: South America
- Swimming Level: Mid-water
About the Species:
Rummy Nose Tetras are small, peaceful fish that are easy to recognize due to their distinctive red and black stripes on their nose. They’re native to the warm, acidic waters of South America and prefer well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding places.
Rummy Nose Tetras are sensitive to water conditions, so regular water changes and monitoring of water parameters are crucial. They’re also schooling fish and should be kept in groups of 6-10 or more.
One of the unique characteristics of Rummy Nose Tetras is their ability to adapt to different water conditions, making them a great choice for community tanks. With proper care and attention, Rummy Nose Tetras can live up to 5-7 years in captivity, making them a wonderful addition to a well-maintained community tank.
8. Molly Fish
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Poecilia spp.
- Adult Size: 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Compatibility: Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Easy
- Water Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: Central and South America
- Swimming Level: Mid-water
About the Species:
Molly Fish are small, peaceful fish that are easy to care for and breed. They’re native to the warm, freshwater habitats of Central and South America and prefer well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding places.
Molly Fish are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young, and can produce multiple broods in a year. They’re also very active swimmers and can be kept in small schools.
One of the unique characteristics of Molly Fish is their ability to adapt to different water conditions, making them a great choice for community tanks. With proper care and attention, Molly Fish can live up to 3-5 years in captivity, making them a wonderful addition to a well-maintained community tank.
9. Endler’s Livebearers
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Poecilia wingei
- Adult Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Compatibility: Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Easy
- Water Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: South America
- Swimming Level: Mid-water
About the Species:
Endler’s Livebearers are small, peaceful fish that are easy to care for and breed. They’re native to the warm, freshwater habitats of South America and prefer well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding places.
Endler’s Livebearers are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young, and can produce multiple broods in a year. They’re also very active swimmers and can be kept in small schools.
One of the unique characteristics of Endler’s Livebearers is their vibrant coloration and distinctive tail fins. With proper care and attention, Endler’s Livebearers can live up to 3-5 years in captivity, making them a wonderful addition to a well-maintained community tank.
10. Honey Gourami
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Trichogaster lalius
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.6 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Compatibility: Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Easy
- Water Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: South Asia
- Swimming Level: Mid-water
About the Species:
Honey Gouramis are small, peaceful fish that are easy to care for and add a touch of elegance to community tanks. They’re native to the warm, freshwater habitats of South Asia and prefer well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding places.
Honey Gouramis are known for their distinctive honey-colored scales and long, flowing fins. They’re also very active swimmers and can be kept in small schools.
One of the unique characteristics of Honey Gouramis is their ability to change color depending on their mood and environment. With proper care and attention, Honey Gouramis can live up to 5-7 years in captivity, making them a wonderful addition to a well-maintained community tank.
11. Dwarf Gourami
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Colisa lalia
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.6 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Compatibility: Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Easy
- Water Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: South Asia
- Swimming Level: Mid-water
About the Species:
Dwarf Gouramis are fascinating fish with unique personalities. In the wild, they inhabit slow-moving streams and rivers, where they feed on small invertebrates and plant matter. In the aquarium, they’re known for their bold and curious nature, often exploring their surroundings and interacting with their tankmates.
One interesting behavior of Dwarf Gouramis is their ability to recognize their owners and respond to their presence. They’re also skilled at hiding and seeking, making them a fun challenge to spot in a planted tank. With proper care and attention, Dwarf Gouramis can thrive in a well-maintained community tank.
12. Guppies
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata
- Adult Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 5 gallons (19 liters)
- Compatibility: Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Easy
- Water Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: South America
- Swimming Level: Mid-water
About the Species:
Guppies are small, colorful fish. They have a distinctive tail fin. This fin is long and flowing. They are peaceful and calm. Keep them in small schools. They are easy to care for.
Guppies thrive in small community tanks. Add plenty of plants and hiding places. This makes them feel secure. Males have bright colors and long fins. Females are duller in color. They have a rounded belly. Guppies are prolific breeders. They can produce many offspring. Separate males and females if you don’t want them to breed.
With proper care, guppies grow up to 2 inches in length. They can live for 3-5 years. This makes them a wonderful addition to a well-maintained aquarium.
13. Platies
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Xiphophorus maculatus
- Adult Size: 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Compatibility: Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Easy
- Water Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: Central and South America
- Swimming Level: Mid-water
About the Species:
Platies are small, peaceful fish. They come in many colors. They have a flat, rounded body. They are easy to care for. Keep them in small schools. They are active swimmers. Platies thrive in community tanks. Add plenty of plants and hiding places. This makes them feel secure.
Males have a pointed tail fin. Females have a rounded tail fin. They are easy to breed. Platies are prolific eaters. Feed them small meals. They love to eat algae and small insects.
With proper care, platies grow up to 3 inches in length. They can live for 3-5 years. This makes them a wonderful addition to a well-maintained aquarium.
14. Swordtails
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Xiphophorus hellerii
- Adult Size: 2-4 inches (5-10 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Compatibility: Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Easy
- Water Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: Central and South America
- Swimming Level: Mid-water
About the Species:
Swordtails are small, peaceful fish. They have a distinctive sword-like tail. This tail is long and pointed. They are easy to care for. Keep them in small schools. They are active swimmers.
Swordtails thrive in community tanks. Add plenty of plants and hiding places. This makes them feel secure. Males have a long, pointed tail. Females have a shorter, rounded tail. They are easy to breed. Swordtails are prolific eaters. Feed them small meals. They love to eat algae and small insects.
With proper care, swordtails grow up to 4 inches in length. They can live for 3-5 years. This makes them a wonderful addition to a well-maintained aquarium.
15. Zebra Danios
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Danio rerio
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.6 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Compatibility: Active, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Easy
- Water Temperature: 65-77°F (18-25°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: South Asia
- Swimming Level: Mid-water
About the Species:
Zebra danios are active, hardy fish. They have a horizontal stripe pattern. They are easy to care for. They are tolerant of changes in water conditions. They are active swimmers. They are easy to breed.
Zebra danios thrive in community tanks. Add plenty of plants and hiding places. This makes them feel secure. Males are slender and have a pointed anal fin. Females are rounder and have a rounded anal fin. Zebra danios are prolific eaters. Feed them small meals. They love to eat algae and small insects.
With proper care, zebra danios grow up to 3 inches in length. They can live for 5-7 years. This makes them a wonderful addition to a well-maintained aquarium.
16. Cherry Barbs
Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Puntius titteya
- Adult Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm)
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Compatibility: Peaceful, suitable for community tanks
- Care Level: Easy
- Water Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter
- Origin: Sri Lanka
- Swimming Level: Mid-water
About the Species:
Cherry barbs are small, peaceful fish. They have a bright red color. They are easy to care for. They are schooling fish. Keep them in groups of 6-10. They are active swimmers.
Cherry barbs thrive in community tanks. Add plenty of plants and hiding places. This makes them feel secure. Males are more intensely colored than females. Females have a more subdued color. Cherry barbs are prolific eaters. Feed them small meals. They love to eat algae and small insects.
With proper care, cherry barbs grow up to 2 inches in length. They can live for 5-7 years. This makes them a wonderful addition to a well-maintained aquarium.
Betta Tank Mate Checklist
Setting Up the Aquarium:
- Tank: Choose the right size and type of tank for your space and fish.
- Stand: Ensure the tank stand is sturdy and level.
- Filter: Install a suitable filter for your tank size and fish.
- Heater: Install a heater (if necessary) and set the temperature.
- Lighting: Install suitable lighting for your tank and fish.
- Gravel and Decorations: Add gravel, plants, and decorations.
- Water: Fill the tank with dechlorinated water.
Cycling the Aquarium:
- Cycle: Allow the tank to cycle for 2-4 weeks before adding fish.
- Test: Test the water for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels.
- Monitor: Monitor the tank’s progress and make adjustments as needed.
Adding Fish:
- Choose Healthy Fish: Select healthy fish from a reputable pet store.
- Acclimate: Acclimate the fish to the tank water.
- Introduce: Introduce the fish to the tank slowly and under close observation.
Ongoing Maintenance:
- Regular Water Changes: Perform regular water changes (10-20% every week).
- Monitor Water Parameters: Regularly test the water for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels.
- Clean the Tank: Clean the tank and equipment regularly.
- Feed Fish Properly: Feed the fish a balanced diet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, creating a thriving community tank for betta fish requires careful consideration of compatible tankmates, tank setup, and regular maintenance. By choosing peaceful, small fish that occupy different swimming levels and have similar water requirements, you can create a harmonious and engaging aquarium environment.