11 Best Betta Tank Mates for a Peaceful Aquarium Environment

Choosing the right betta tank mates can be a bit tricky, especially since betta fish are known for their territorial and sometimes aggressive behavior. However, with careful planning and the right companions, it’s possible for your betta to share its home peacefully.

Whether you’re looking to add some variety to your tank or simply want to give your betta a few new friends, it’s important to know which species are compatible. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best options for betta tank mates and how to create a harmonious environment for all your fish.

Best Tank Mates for Betta Fish

Choosing the right tank mates for your betta fish requires careful consideration. While bettas are known for their territorial and sometimes aggressive behavior, they can coexist peacefully with other species if the tank environment is right and the fish are carefully selected. Here are some of the best types of tank mates for bettas, broken down into different categories:

Small, Peaceful Fish

Image source: Pinterest

When selecting tank mates for bettas, it’s essential to choose fish that are small, peaceful, and not overly flashy. Bettas may see brightly colored or fast-moving fish as threats, so it’s best to choose species that are calm and non-aggressive.

1. Neon Tetras:

Neon tetras are a popular choice for betta tank mates due to their peaceful nature and small size. These schooling fish are typically calm and won’t compete with the betta for territory. In a group of six or more, they tend to stick together and avoid confrontation. Their muted coloring (compared to bettas) makes them less likely to trigger aggression.

Tank Size: A tank of at least 10 gallons is recommended if you plan to keep tetras with a betta. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own territory.

2. Ember Tetras:

Similar to neon tetras, ember tetras are small, peaceful, and do well in schools. Their orange coloring is subtle enough not to provoke aggression in bettas, and they tend to occupy the middle level of the tank, leaving the betta to patrol its preferred space near the surface.

Tank Size: Like neon tetras, ember tetras require at least 10 gallons for adequate space.

3. Harlequin Rasboras:

Harlequin rasboras are another excellent option for betta tanks. These fish are peaceful, social, and less likely to cause stress to a betta. They also prefer schooling in groups, which helps reduce any potential territorial behavior.

Tank Size: A 10-gallon tank or larger is recommended when housing rasboras with a betta.

Bottom-Dwelling Fish

Image source: Pinterest

Bettas tend to stay near the surface or mid-levels of the tank, so choosing bottom-dwelling fish as tank mates can be a good option. These species generally won’t compete with the betta for territory or food, making them less likely to trigger aggressive behavior.

1. Corydoras Catfish:

Corydoras catfish (or cory cats) are small, peaceful, and bottom-dwelling fish that make excellent tank mates for bettas. Corydoras spend most of their time scavenging along the substrate, cleaning up leftover food and debris, and generally keeping to themselves. Their peaceful nature and focus on the bottom of the tank make them ideal for avoiding confrontation with bettas.

Tank Size: A tank of at least 10-15 gallons is recommended for housing a group of corydoras and a betta.

2. Kuhli Loaches:

Kuhli loaches are small, eel-like fish that spend most of their time hiding or burrowing in the substrate. Their reclusive nature and preference for the tank’s bottom make them great companions for bettas. Kuhli loaches are shy and unlikely to provoke a betta, and their unique appearance can add diversity to the tank without causing stress.

Tank Size: A minimum of 15 gallons is recommended, especially if you keep multiple kuhli loaches.

3. Bristlenose Plecos:

Plecos are bottom dwellers known for their ability to keep the tank clean by eating algae and other debris. The bristlenose pleco, in particular, is a smaller species that can coexist peacefully with bettas. They spend most of their time on the tank’s glass or decorations, far from the betta’s preferred territory.

Tank Size: A 20-gallon tank is ideal if housing a bristlenose pleco with a betta.

Snails

Image source: Pinterest

Snails are another excellent choice for betta tank mates, especially if you’re looking for non-aggressive and easy-to-care-for companions. Bettas usually ignore snails, and snails help keep the tank clean by eating algae and leftover food.

1. Nerite Snails:

Nerite snails are one of the best choices for a betta tank because they are small, peaceful, and efficient algae eaters. Bettas are usually indifferent to them, and they help maintain a clean tank environment. Additionally, nerite snails won’t reproduce in freshwater, so you don’t have to worry about an overpopulation issue.

Tank Size: A 5-gallon tank can comfortably house a betta and a few nerite snails.

2. Mystery Snails:

Mystery snails are slightly larger than nerite snails but are still peaceful and compatible with bettas. These snails are known for their vibrant shell colors, which add visual interest to the tank. They are also effective at cleaning up algae and leftover food.

Tank Size: A 10-gallon tank is recommended for a betta and a mystery snail to ensure both have enough space.

Shrimp

Image source: Pinterest

Shrimp can make interesting tank mates for bettas, but they require caution, as some bettas may nip or try to eat them. However, certain species of shrimp are fast and small enough to coexist peacefully in a betta tank, especially if there are plenty of hiding spots.

1. Amano Shrimp:

Amano shrimp are larger and more robust than other types of shrimp, making them less likely to be targeted by bettas. They are excellent algae eaters and spend most of their time cleaning the tank. Although some bettas may show initial curiosity, Amano shrimp can usually hold their own, especially in a well-decorated tank with plenty of hiding spots.

Tank Size: A 10-gallon tank is sufficient for housing a betta and Amano shrimp.

2. Ghost Shrimp:

Ghost shrimp are small, translucent shrimp that are inexpensive and often added to tanks for cleaning purposes. While some bettas may nip at them, they are fast enough to evade aggressive behavior if provided with enough hiding places.

Tank Size: A 5-10 gallon tank with plenty of plants or decorations is ideal for housing ghost shrimp with a betta.

3. Cherry Shrimp:

Cherry shrimp are colorful, small shrimp that can add vibrancy to your tank. However, they are more vulnerable than Amano or ghost shrimp, and there’s a higher chance that your betta may see them as food. If you decide to add cherry shrimp, make sure the tank is heavily planted, allowing the shrimp to hide and escape if necessary.

Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons with plenty of hiding spots is recommended for cherry shrimp and bettas.

Tank Mates to Avoid

While some fish and invertebrates can live peacefully with bettas, there are certain species you should avoid. These tank mates may provoke aggressive behavior in your betta or face harm themselves due to the betta’s territorial nature. Choosing the wrong tank mates can lead to stress, injury, or even death for both the betta and the other fish. Here’s a detailed guide on the types of tank mates to avoid:

1. Other Male Bettas

One of the most well-known rules of betta care is that male bettas should never be housed together. Male bettas are highly territorial and aggressive toward one another, often resulting in violent fights that can lead to severe injuries or death.

• Why It’s a Problem: Male bettas see each other as rivals, and when placed in the same tank, they will almost always fight for dominance. The fights can result in torn fins, severe stress, and sometimes even fatalities.
• What About Dividers?: Some aquarists use tank dividers to keep male bettas in the same tank while preventing physical contact. While this can work, it still stresses the bettas out as they can see each other and may continuously flare and display aggressive behavior through the divider.

2. Female Betta Sororities

While female bettas are generally less aggressive than males, keeping them in groups, also known as “sororities,” can still be tricky. Female bettas can be territorial and aggressive towards each other, particularly in small or inadequately set-up tanks.

• Why It’s a Problem: Sororities can work, but they require careful planning. Female bettas establish a hierarchy within the group, and fights may break out during this process. If the tank is too small or lacks enough hiding spots, the aggression can escalate, causing stress and injury to the fish.
• When It Can Work: For those experienced in betta care, a female betta sorority can work in a larger tank (at least 20 gallons) with plenty of plants and hiding places. Introducing all the females at the same time and monitoring for aggression is essential. However, it’s generally recommended for more advanced hobbyists.

3. Aggressive or Nippy Fish

Image source: Pinterest

Aggressive or fin-nipping fish can spell disaster for a betta. Bettas have long, flowing fins that can be tempting targets for fin-nipping species. These nippy fish will often chase or bite at the betta’s fins, leading to injury, stress, and potential infection.

• Tiger Barbs: Tiger barbs are notorious fin nippers. They are fast, active, and often chase slower-moving fish like bettas. Tiger barbs are particularly problematic because they tend to nip at the betta’s delicate fins, causing physical damage and stress.
• Serpae Tetras: Serpae tetras are another species to avoid. They are known for being aggressive and may nip at a betta’s fins. While they can live peacefully in larger schools, their fin-nipping behavior makes them unsuitable companions for bettas.
• Danios: Danios, especially zebra danios, are fast swimmers and can be very active in the tank. Their constant movement can stress out bettas, which prefer calmer environments. Additionally, their hyperactivity may provoke the betta into aggressive displays.

4. Bright, Colorful Fish

Image source: Pinterest

Betta fish are drawn to bright colors and flowing fins, as these traits resemble other bettas. Placing brightly colored fish with long fins in the same tank can cause your betta to perceive them as competition or threats, triggering aggressive behavior.

• Guppies: Guppies, particularly the males, are brightly colored and have long, flowing tails. These traits can make them look like rival male bettas to your fish, leading to aggressive behavior and attacks. Even though guppies are peaceful, the betta may not recognize that and could attack.
• Fancy Guppies: Similar to regular guppies, fancy guppies are known for their vibrant colors and extravagant tails. They are especially prone to being attacked by bettas who mistake them for competitors.
• Killifish: Killifish are another brightly colored species that may trigger aggression in bettas. Their bold patterns and flashy appearance can easily cause a betta to feel threatened, resulting in displays of territorial behavior.

5. Large, Aggressive Species

Image source: Pinterest

Large or aggressive fish can easily overpower and bully a betta, particularly in a smaller tank. These species are often territorial themselves and may not tolerate the presence of a betta, leading to fighting and stress.

• Cichlids: Many species of cichlids, including African cichlids and larger South American cichlids, are highly territorial and aggressive. They can easily injure a betta or dominate the tank, causing constant stress for the betta.
• Oscars: Oscars are large, aggressive fish that are known for their predatory nature. They are far too big and territorial to coexist peacefully with a betta. In addition, Oscars require a much larger tank than what is typically used for bettas.
• Goldfish: While goldfish are not necessarily aggressive, they are not compatible with bettas due to differences in water temperature requirements and tank size. Goldfish are cold-water fish, while bettas are tropical fish that need warm water. Additionally, goldfish produce a lot of waste, which can quickly foul the water and harm the betta.

How to Introduce Betta Fish to New Tank Mates

Image source: Pinterest

1. Quarantine New Fish

Before introducing any new fish to your betta’s tank, it’s essential to quarantine them for at least two weeks. This precaution helps prevent the spread of any diseases or parasites that the new fish might carry into the established tank.

Quarantining new fish gives you time to observe them for signs of illness or unusual behavior. This step is crucial because diseases or parasites can stress your betta, leading to serious health problems. Once the new fish are healthy and acclimated, they can be safely introduced to your betta’s tank.

2. Rearrange the Tank

Before adding new tank mates, rearranging the tank can help reduce territorial aggression from your betta. Bettas are territorial creatures and often become attached to specific areas of the tank. By moving around plants, decorations, and hiding spots, you disrupt the established territories, which makes it harder for the betta to claim an area as its own.

This creates a more neutral environment, reducing the likelihood of the betta seeing the new fish as invaders. The new layout can also provide more hiding places for the newcomers to feel safe.

3. Introduce Tank Mates Gradually

When introducing new tank mates, it’s important to do so gradually to reduce the stress on both the betta and the new fish. Start by floating the new fish in a bag or container in the tank for about 30 minutes to allow them to adjust to the water temperature.

Over the next 10-15 minutes, slowly add small amounts of the tank water to the bag so the new fish can acclimate to the chemistry. During this time, observe your betta’s behavior—if the betta remains calm, you can proceed, but if it shows signs of aggression, you may need to take additional steps.

4. Monitor Behavior Closely

Once the new tank mates are introduced, closely monitor the behavior of all the fish, especially in the first few hours and days. It’s natural for your betta to be curious, but it should not display continuous aggression, such as chasing or nipping at the new fish.

Similarly, the new tank mates should not show signs of stress, like hiding constantly or swimming erratically. If aggressive behavior persists, you may need to intervene by separating the fish temporarily or providing additional hiding spaces for the new fish.

5. Use a Divider If Necessary

If the betta shows consistent signs of aggression, using a tank divider can be an effective temporary solution. A divider allows the betta and the new fish to share the same tank while keeping them physically separated, preventing injuries.

This method helps the betta get used to the presence of the new tank mates without the risk of direct confrontation. After a few days of observing their behavior, you can remove the divider if the aggression subsides. If the betta continues to be aggressive, a permanent divider or a separate tank might be necessary.

6. Provide Plenty of Hiding Spots

Hiding spots are crucial when introducing new fish to a betta’s tank, as they help reduce stress for all the fish involved. Bettas are naturally territorial, and new tank mates may need time to adjust and feel safe.

Adding plants, caves, and decorations with small spaces for hiding gives new fish places to retreat when they feel threatened. Bettas also enjoy resting in sheltered areas, so creating plenty of visual barriers can help the new fish and the betta coexist peacefully by reducing the likelihood of territorial disputes.