Q: LP Wrote,
I wanted to ask you if you might make a post about suitable tank mates for a betta, say in a 5-gal tank. I’m getting ready to take the plunge into a 5-gal for one of my bettas (once he’s healed) and will be getting… SOMETHING. But there is a lot of conflicting info out there.
Apple Snails (1)
Ghost Shrimp (several) also called Glass shrimp
Otos (2)
Full grown neon tetras (4 – 5)- too big to be dinner
You will quickly max out your bioload in your 5 gal so choose only one type from the list above (maybe an apple snail and a few ghost shrimp) but not everything on the list. Also, consider that some of the fish like otos and neons are shoaling fish and prefer to be in groups. For their health, one lone fish is not recommended. Increasing the size of your tank will allow you to get a really great school together where you can observe their natural behavior best.
Always research the species before you by them so you have a good understanding of their needs. Apple snails and ghost shrimp for instance need water rich in calcium to support strong shell/exoskeletal growth.
It is also good to test your own tank water or have your local fish store test it for you. Otos do best in water with a very stable pH. They are sensitive to pH crashes and may not be suitable for water with a very low buffering capacity. (KH)
Give yourself a little time with your betta before you buy your tank mates to observe his personality. Some bettas are very aggressive and may do best in a tank without any other fish. It may not hurt to have a “plan B” in the back of your mind should you find your betta attacking his tank mates.
It is sensible to assume all new fish may harbor disease or parasites. Never add a new fish to a tank without quarantining him for at least 4 weeks in a separate aquarium. To learn more, visit the quarantine section on the Nippyfish.net Tankmates page. Animals that are not fish, like snails and shrimp don’t usually harbor diseases that are contagous to fish. Some folks may recommend you quarantine them too, but personally I don’t bother. I don’t know if this is prudent advice, but take it as you will.
Now that I’ve scared you with all the things to worry about regarding
The fish that can live with bettas article is a good read for this subject also.
View Comments (10)
How flattering to find my question used! I hope it will be helpful to other betta enthusiasts or newbies.
I hope one day to have all of my betta friends in large tanks like 10-gal, but this 5-gal is sitting and waiting to be filled up. Thanks for your advice (and yes, it will be cycled). I hate to waste something that was free, and figure that a cycled 5-gal is still a pretty big upgrade for any of my bettas (who are currently in uncycled 2.5 gal bowls).
I wanted to ask specifically about African Dwarf Frogs — these are at the topy of my “tank mates” list, but you didn’t mention them, and they are often spoken about as ideal betta mates.
I have a 10 Gal tank and i have 6 Betta fish Males, How could i put them together in the tank with a divider?
you cant there isnt alot of space and they will suffer a horrible death
Great info. I’ve been looking for potential tank mates for my beta. I’ve been trying to cycle the tank but even after a little less then a week. I still have 0 ammonia, nitrites nitrates. Or at least so low to not register on the tests. I suppose I should just keep testing daily until I see ammonia going up ?
Great info. I’ve been looking for potential tank mates for my beta. I’ve been trying to cycle the tank but even after a little less then a week. I still have 0 ammonia, nitrites nitrates. Or at least so low to not register on the tests. I suppose I should just keep testing daily until I see ammonia going up ?
You want NO ammonia or nitrates, etc in the tank. Thats the point of cycling. If you have too much, it will kill your fish.
What a great article is! There are 2 male betta fishes in my 5 gallon aquarium and I think 5 gallon aquarium is the perfect for betta fish. I am highly benefited to know how to take care the betta fish for 5 gallon fish tnak. I will definitely follow your informative instruction. Can put together male and female betta fish in 5 gallon fish tank. Thanks for the share.
I have heard to have Tetras you need 10 gallon tanks because they travel in schools.
I would say that you could do a snail some shrimp or something like chili rasboras
@Chocolatewayne, These are good suggestion and we have had success with these and our betta fish.