Betta fish and guppies are not suitable to be kept together. Although both are tropical fish, there are significant differences in their personalities, body sizes, and water quality requirements, which can easily lead to conflicts.
Firstly, betta fish are highly aggressive, especially Siamese fighting fish. They have a fierce temperament and tend to bully smaller guppies. Guppies are gentle in nature and usually do not take the initiative to attack other fish, but they are easily bullied by betta fish.
Secondly, there is a noticeable difference in body size between betta fish and guppies. The adult body length of most guppies is usually between 5 and 8 centimeters, while Siamese fighting fish can grow to about 10 centimeters. Smaller guppies not only have difficulty competing for food but may also be bullied by larger betta fish.
In addition, their water quality requirements are also different. Guppies prefer to live in slightly alkaline water, while Siamese fighting fish favor neutral water quality. This difference in water quality may make it difficult for them to survive in the same environment.
However, there are some situations where betta fish and guppies can be kept together. For example, when betta fish are raised with guppies or other fish from a young age, their aggressiveness will decrease, and they are less likely to attack guppies. Moreover, choosing guppy varieties with shorter tails and quick movements can also help reduce conflicts.
In conclusion, although betta fish and guppies can be kept together under certain conditions, generally speaking, they are not suitable to be kept together, as conflicts and bullying are likely to occur.