Bettas have become a beloved choice for freshwater aquarium enthusiasts. Their stunning appearance is a real crowd-pleaser.
Now, let’s talk tank mates: which fish can coexist peacefully with Bettas? It’s important to know who they can be friends with and who to steer clear of.
I’ve gained plenty of knowledge about this through both trial and error over the years. In this article, I’m going to share my experiences with you, covering both the positives and the challenges.
So, without further ado, let’s get started.
How To Pick Tank Mates for Bettas
To pick tank mates for bettas, it’s essential to choose peaceful, non-aggressive fish that won’t nip at the betta’s fins or provoke its territorial instincts.
The ideal companions should be able to thrive in the same water conditions as bettas, ensuring a harmonious environment.
- Temperament Compatibility: Choose fish that are naturally peaceful and non-territorial, avoiding those with known aggressive or dominant behaviors, to prevent conflicts with the betta’s personality.
- Size Considerations: Select companions that are small to medium in size, ensuring they are not so large as to intimidate the betta or so small as to be seen as prey.
- Fin-Nipping Avoidance: Look for species that do not have a tendency to nip fins, as this can cause stress and injury to the betta, which often has long, flowing fins.
- Swimming Zone Preferences: Preferably pick fish that inhabit different water layers (like bottom dwellers) to minimize direct interaction and competition for space with the betta.
- Similar Water Condition Needs: Ensure the chosen tank mates can thrive in the same water conditions (temperature, pH, hardness) as bettas, to maintain a stable and healthy environment for all.
Taking these aspects into account, let’s explore the top species to have as tank mates for Bettas:
| Species | Compatibility Score |
| Corydoras Catfish | 10/10 |
| Harlequin Rasbora | 9/10 |
| Kuhli Loach | 9/10 |
| Neon Tetra | 8/10 |
| Ember Tetra | 8/10 |
| Zebra Snail | 8/10 |
| Amano Shrimp | 7/10 |
| Cherry Shrimp | 7/10 |
| African Dwarf Frog | 7/10 |
| Ghost Shrimp | 7/10 |
| Bristlenose Pleco | 7/10 |
| Mystery Snail | 6/10 |
| Otocinclus Catfish | 6/10 |
| White Cloud Mountain Minnow | 6/10 |
| Platy | 6/10 |
Also Read: Betta Fish Care Guide
1. Corydoras Catfish
- Scientific Name: Corydoras spp.
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- pH: 6.5-7.8
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
- Adult Size: Up to 2.5 inches
- Recommended School Size: 6 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 10/10
- Comment: Ideal companions for bettas due to their peaceful nature and bottom-dwelling habits.
Corydoras Catfish are perfect tank mates for bettas as they are peaceful, bottom-dwelling fish that rarely venture into the betta’s preferred upper swimming zones.
Their small size and non-aggressive nature prevent any intimidation or fin-nipping issues.
They also thrive in similar water conditions, with compatible temperature and pH ranges, making the tank environment harmonious for both species.
The Corydoras’ preference for staying at the bottom reduces territorial disputes, ensuring a stress-free cohabitation.
2. Harlequin Rasbora
- Scientific Name: Trigonostigma heteromorpha
- Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches
- Recommended School Size: 8 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 9/10
- Comment: Their peaceful disposition and different swimming zone preference make them compatible with bettas.
Harlequin Rasboras are excellent choices for sharing a tank with bettas due to their peaceful and schooling nature.
They prefer the middle layers of the tank, avoiding the betta’s territory near the surface. These fish are small and non-territorial, reducing any risk of aggression or fin-nipping.
Additionally, they require similar water parameters, ensuring both species can thrive in the same environment.
3. Kuhli Loach
- Scientific Name: Pangio kuhlii
- Temperature: 75-86°F (24-30°C)
- pH: 5.5-7.0
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
- Adult Size: Up to 4 inches
- Recommended School Size: 5 or more
- Care Level: Moderate
- Compatibility: 9/10
- Comment: Their bottom-dwelling nature and non-confrontational behavior make them suitable companions for bettas.
Kuhli Loaches are great for cohabiting with bettas as they are peaceful, nocturnal, and predominantly stay at the bottom of the tank.
This minimizes interactions with bettas, who prefer the upper levels.
They are not known for fin-nipping and pose no threat to the betta. Their similar water condition requirements and non-territorial behavior make them compatible tank mates.
4. Neon Tetra
- Scientific Name: Paracheirodon innesi
- Temperature: 70-81°F (21-27°C)
- pH: 6.0-7.0
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: Up to 1.5 inches
- Recommended School Size: 10 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 8/10
- Comment: Their small size, schooling nature, and mid-water swimming reduce conflicts with bettas.
Neon Tetras are suitable companions for bettas due to their small size and peaceful temperament.
They swim in the middle layers of the tank, which reduces territorial disputes with surface-dwelling bettas.
Their preference for schooling also diffuses potential aggression from the betta. Additionally, Neon Tetras thrive in similar water conditions, allowing for a shared comfortable habitat.
5. Ember Tetra
- Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon amandae
- Temperature: 73-84°F (23-29°C)
- pH: 5.5-7.0
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: Up to 1 inch
- Recommended School Size: 10 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 8/10
- Comment: Ember Tetras are non-aggressive and occupy different swimming zones, making them compatible with bettas.
Ember Tetras are excellent betta tank mates because of their non-confrontational nature and small size. They prefer mid-water levels, avoiding the betta’s territory at the surface.
Their schooling behavior helps avoid direct conflicts, and they are not known to be fin-nippers.
With similar requirements for water temperature and pH, they can coexist peacefully with bettas in the same tank.
6. Zebra Snail
- Scientific Name: Neritina natalensis
- Temperature: 70-78°F (21-26°C)
- pH: 6.5-8.0
- Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons
- Adult Size: Up to 1 inch
- Recommended School Size: N/A (solitary)
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 8/10
- Comment: Non-intrusive and beneficial for algae control, they’re ideal for bettas due to their non-competitive nature.
Zebra Snails are excellent tank mates for bettas as they are non-aggressive and primarily focused on algae cleaning.
They occupy different spaces in the tank, usually clinging to surfaces, which minimizes interaction with bettas.
Their presence does not threaten bettas, and they thrive in similar water conditions, making the cohabitation stress-free for both species.
7. Amano Shrimp
- Scientific Name: Caridina multidentata
- Temperature: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches
- Recommended School Size: 5 or more
- Care Level: Moderate
- Compatibility: 7/10
- Comment: Their non-aggressive nature and focus on tank cleaning make them compatible, though bettas may occasionally chase them.
Amano Shrimp can coexist with bettas due to their peaceful nature and tendency to focus on cleaning the tank rather than interacting with fish.
They are small and non-confrontational, which generally keeps them off the betta’s radar.
However, there might be occasional chasing if the betta feels curious or territorial. They share similar water parameters, allowing for a mutually comfortable environment.
Also Read: Can Female Bettas Live With Shrimp?
8. Cherry Shrimp
- Scientific Name: Neocaridina davidi
- Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
- pH: 6.5-8.0
- Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons
- Adult Size: Up to 1.5 inches
- Recommended School Size: 10 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 7/10
- Comment: Generally safe with bettas, but smaller shrimps could be at risk if the betta is overly aggressive.
Cherry Shrimp are often suitable tank mates for bettas as they are small, non-aggressive, and spend most of their time scavenging for food on tank surfaces.
They usually do not provoke a betta’s aggression, although very small shrimp may be viewed as prey by some bettas.
Their similar water requirements ensure a harmonious environment, but caution is advised depending on the betta’s temperament.
9. African Dwarf Frog
- Scientific Name: Hymenochirus boettgeri
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- pH: 6.5-7.8
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: Up to 2.5 inches
- Recommended School Size: 2 or more
- Care Level: Moderate
- Compatibility: 7/10
- Comment: Peaceful cohabitants, but require attention to feeding in a shared tank with bettas.
African Dwarf Frogs can live with bettas due to their peaceful nature and different habitat preferences within the tank.
They tend to stay at the bottom or mid-level, reducing interactions with bettas. They are not known to bother fish and are generally ignored by bettas.
However, care must be taken during feeding, as they can be slower eaters compared to bettas.
10. Ghost Shrimp
- Scientific Name: Palaemonetes paludosus
- Temperature: 65-82°F (18-28°C)
- pH: 7.0-8.0
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: Up to 1.5 inches
- Recommended School Size: 5 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 7/10
- Comment: They are usually safe with bettas due to their transparency and non-aggressive nature, but small ones may be at risk.
Ghost Shrimp are generally good tank mates for bettas. Their transparent bodies often go unnoticed, reducing the likelihood of provoking the betta’s aggression.
They are non-confrontational and spend much of their time scavenging for food, which minimizes interaction with the betta.
However, smaller shrimp may sometimes be viewed as prey, so the betta’s temperament should be considered.
11. Bristlenose Pleco
- Scientific Name: Ancistrus spp.
- Temperature: 73-80°F (23-27°C)
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- Minimum Tank Size: 25 gallons
- Adult Size: Up to 5 inches
- Recommended School Size: Solitary or in pairs
- Care Level: Easy to Moderate
- Compatibility: 7/10
- Comment: Peaceful and focused on algae, suitable for larger tanks to avoid territorial issues with bettas.
Bristlenose Plecos are a good match for bettas as they are non-aggressive and primarily occupy the bottom of the tank, focusing on algae eating.
They are larger but don’t compete for the same space or food as bettas. However, due to their size, they require a larger tank to ensure enough space for both species.
They share similar water conditions, making the tank environment suitable for both.
12. Mystery Snail
- Scientific Name: Pomacea bridgesii
- Temperature: 68-84°F (20-29°C)
- pH: 7.6-8.4
- Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches
- Recommended School Size: Solitary or small groups
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 6/10
- Comment: Generally safe, but their larger size can sometimes attract betta’s curiosity.
Mystery Snails can live with bettas, as they are peaceful and spend most of their time scavenging on surfaces.
They are larger than other snail species, which sometimes draws the attention of bettas.
However, they usually do not provoke aggression and are a good choice for adding diversity to the tank.
They require similar water conditions, which facilitates a harmonious coexistence.
13. Otocinclus Catfish
- Scientific Name: Otocinclus spp.
- Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
- pH: 6.8-7.5
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches
- Recommended School Size: 6 or more
- Care Level: Moderate
- Compatibility: 6/10
- Comment: Peaceful algae eaters, but require a well-established tank and can be sensitive to changes.
Otocinclus Catfish are suitable for cohabitation with bettas due to their peaceful nature and focus on algae eating.
They usually stay at the bottom of the tank, minimizing interaction with bettas.
However, they are sensitive to water quality and require a well-established aquarium, which might not always align with betta care.
Their non-aggressive nature makes them compatible, provided the environmental conditions are stable.
14. White Cloud Mountain Minnow
- Scientific Name: Tanichthys albonubes
- Temperature: 64-72°F (18-22°C)
- pH: 6.0-8.0
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: Up to 1.5 inches
- Recommended School Size: 6 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 6/10
- Comment: Hardy and peaceful, but prefer slightly cooler temperatures than bettas.
White Cloud Mountain Minnows can live with bettas as they are peaceful and occupy the middle to top layers of the tank.
They are small and non-territorial, reducing potential conflicts.
However, their preference for cooler water temperatures than bettas necessitates a careful balance to meet both species’ needs.
Their schooling nature also helps in diffusing any potential aggression from the betta.
15. Platy
- Scientific Name: Xiphophorus maculatus
- Temperature: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
- pH: 6.8-8.0
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Adult Size: Up to 2.5 inches
- Recommended School Size: 5 or more
- Care Level: Easy
- Compatibility: 6/10
- Comment: Generally peaceful, but their active nature and size might occasionally stress a betta.
Platies can coexist with bettas under the right conditions. They are peaceful and non-aggressive, making them suitable tank mates.
Their active swimming and slightly larger size can sometimes stress bettas, so monitoring their interaction is important.
They thrive in similar water conditions, which makes managing a shared tank feasible. Careful observation is key to ensuring a stress-free environment for both species.
Also Read: How To Feed Betta Fish
Species to Avoid in a Betta Fish Tank
Not all aquarium species get along well with bettas as tank mates. If you’re establishing a new tank, here are some creatures you should steer clear of:
1. Goldfish
They produce a lot of waste which can quickly deteriorate water quality, unsuitable for bettas.
Goldfish also require cooler water temperatures and different diets compared to bettas.
Additionally, their larger size and different swimming habits can lead to stress and territorial disputes with bettas.
2. African Cichlids
Known for their aggressive and territorial nature, African Cichlids can easily harass or harm bettas.
They require different water parameters, particularly a higher pH, which is not conducive to bettas’ health.
Their size and dominance in the tank can also lead to significant stress for bettas.
3. Tiger Barb
Tiger Barbs are notorious for their fin-nipping behavior, which can be harmful to bettas with their long, flowing fins.
They are also semi-aggressive and can provoke stress and aggression in bettas.
Additionally, their active swimming and schooling behavior can overwhelm and stress a solitary betta.
4. Guppy
Male guppies, with their bright colors and flowing tails, can be mistaken by bettas for rivals, triggering aggressive behavior.
Guppies also breed prolifically, which can lead to overcrowding and stress in a betta tank.
The difference in swimming levels and spaces can cause competition and aggression between the two species.
5. Angelfish
Angelfish can grow quite large and become territorial, which can lead to them bullying or attacking bettas.
Their size and aggressive feeding behavior can intimidate bettas, causing stress and potential harm.
Moreover, angelfish require different tank setups and environments compared to bettas.
6. Red Tail Shark
This species is known for its territorial and aggressive nature, especially as it matures, making it incompatible with peaceful bettas.
They can become dominant in the tank, often chasing and harassing bettas. Red Tail Sharks also require larger tanks and different environmental conditions than bettas.
7. Betta Fish of the Same Gender
Keeping two male bettas together, or even a male and a female, can lead to serious aggression and fighting, as bettas are highly territorial.
Male bettas will often fight to the point of injury or death, while a female and male pair can also show aggression outside of breeding times.
This environment creates constant stress and potential harm, making it unsuitable for healthy cohabitation.
Also Read: Betta Fry Care
Do Female Bettas Do Better with Tank Mates?
Yes, female bettas generally do better with tank mates compared to their male counterparts, as they tend to be less territorial and aggressive.
However, the choice of tank mates and the tank environment still play crucial roles in ensuring a harmonious cohabitation.
- Lower Aggression Levels: Female bettas exhibit less territorial aggression than males, reducing the likelihood of conflict with peaceful community fish.
- Sorority Tanks Possibility: Females can be kept in groups, known as sororities, in a large, well-planted tank, promoting social interaction and less individual stress.
- Compatibility with Peaceful Species: They are more likely to coexist peacefully with small, non-aggressive species like snails, shrimp, and certain small fish.
- Importance of Tank Size and Setup: A spacious tank with ample hiding places and plants is essential to diffuse potential stress and provide escape zones for all inhabitants.
Here are 7 possible tank mates that are typically not suitable for male bettas due to aggression issues, but can potentially live with female bettas:
- Guppies: Their bright colors and active nature may provoke male bettas, but female bettas often tolerate them better.
- Male Endler’s Livebearers: Similar to guppies, their vibrant colors and energy can agitate male bettas, while females might be more accepting.
- Smaller Tetra Species: Some smaller tetras can be nippy or too active for male bettas, but may coexist more peacefully with females.
- Dwarf Gourami: Their similar appearance to bettas can lead to aggression with males, but females are less likely to see them as a threat.
- Molly Fish: Known for their active swimming, they might stress male bettas, whereas females may adapt better to their presence.
- Male Platy: Their bright colors and energy can be too much for male bettas, but female bettas might find them less intimidating.
- Swordtails: The males of this species are colorful and can be quite active, making them a better match for female bettas than males.
- Zebra Danios: They are peaceful and active swimmers that typically inhabit different areas of the tank, avoiding the territorial nature of bettas.
Also Read: Zebra Danios And Bettas
Conclusions
For quick readers, here’s a short summary:
- To ensure a harmonious betta tank, select peaceful, non-aggressive mates that thrive in similar water conditions, avoiding fin-nippers and territorial species.
- Ideal betta companions are of a small to medium size, occupy different swimming zones, and have compatible temperaments to prevent conflicts.
- The best tank mates include Corydoras Catfish, Harlequin Rasbora, and Neon Tetra, known for their peaceful nature and non-territorial behavior.
- Avoid Goldfish, African Cichlids, and Tiger Barbs as tank mates for bettas due to their incompatible temperaments, water conditions, and aggressive behaviors.
- Female bettas are generally more accommodating with tank mates, tolerating species like Guppies and Endler’s Livebearers better than males.