This is the most dangerous question a beginner can ask. Customer: “He looks lonely. Can I buy him a friend?” The Shop Guy: “He isn’t lonely. He is a serial killer. But… maybe.”
Here is the honest guide to Betta Tank Mates. Most online lists are wrong because they don’t tell you the risks.
Let’s get one thing clear: Bettas do not get lonely. In the wild, they are solitary. If they see another fish, they usually think one of two things:
- “Is that a threat?” (Fight it).
- “Is that food?” (Eat it).
However, you CAN keep other fish with a Betta if you follow the strict rules of the “Community Tank.”
1. The Golden Rule: It Depends on HIS Personality
Before you buy friends, look at your Betta.
- The Psycho: Does he flare at his own reflection? Does he bite your finger? If yes, he must live alone. He will kill anything you add.
- The Chill Guy: Does he ignore the glass? Is he lazy? If yes, you can try tank mates.
2. The “Green Light” List (Safest)
These are the clean-up crew. They are usually ignored by Bettas because they don’t look like fish.
- A. Nerite Snails (The Tank Roomba)
- Why: They have hard shells and short antennas. Bettas can’t bite them. They eat algae like machines.
- Warning: Do not get Mystery Snails (Apple Snails). They have long, waving antennas that look like worms. The Betta will bite them off.
- B. Ghost Shrimp / Amano Shrimp
- Why: They are transparent and fast. Hard to see, hard to catch.
- The Risk: Cherry Shrimp (Red) are risky. To a Betta, a red shrimp looks like a floating Dorito. It is a snack. Only add Cherry Shrimp if you have lots of hiding spots (moss).
3. The “Yellow Light” List (Proceed with Caution)
You need a 10-Gallon (40L) tank minimum for these. Do NOT put these in a 5-gallon tank. It is too cramped, and the Betta will kill them for space.
- A. Harlequin Rasboras
- Why: They come from the same habitat as Bettas. They are peaceful and quick, but not “nippy.”
- B. Corydoras Catfish (Bottom Dwellers)
- Why: They stay on the floor. The Betta stays at the top. They rarely meet.
- Note: You need a group of 6+.
- C. Neon Tetras (The Risky Choice)
- Why: Everyone does it, but it often fails. Neons are “fin nippers.” A group of Neons can bully a slow Halfmoon Betta. Only do this with short-finned Plakats.
4. The “Red Light” List (Instant Death)
Never, ever put these fish with a Betta.
- X. Guppies: They are colorful and have long fins. The Betta thinks they are other male Bettas. He will shred them.
- X. Goldfish: Goldfish need cold water; Bettas need warm water. Goldfish produce too much poop. Bad mix.
- X. Other Bettas: (Obviously).
- X. Gouramis: They are cousins of the Betta. They will fight for dominance.
5. The “Introduction” Protocol
If you just drop the new fish in, the Betta will attack. Do this instead:
- Take the Betta OUT of the tank. Put him in a cup.
- Rearrange the decorations. Move the rocks/plants. This destroys his “territory markers.”
- Add the New Fish first. Let them settle for 30 minutes.
- Add the Betta back in.
- Why: Now he is the new guy. He will be cautious instead of aggressive.
The Shop Guy’s Verdict
If you want a community tank, buy the other fish first, then add the Betta last. If you already have a Betta, the safest “friend” is a Nerite Snail. It’s boring, but it won’t wake up dead.
Pro Tip: If you buy expensive Cherry Shrimp, assume there is a 50% chance they become an expensive lunch. Don’t cry if it happens. That’s nature.
