Here is a detailed summary of the fish species suitable for cohabitation with Siamese fighting fish and the matters needing attention:
I. Recommendations for Fish Species Suitable for Cohabitation
Small Fish that Swim Rapidly in the Upper Layer of the Water
Moonfish: It has rich colors and a fast swimming speed, which enables it to effectively avoid the attacks of Siamese fighting fish. Moreover, it has strong adaptability.
Molly Fish: It has strong disease resistance, a gentle temperament, and flexible swimming, making it suitable for cohabitation with Siamese fighting fish.
Zebra Fish: Its slender body shape and fast swimming characteristics make it difficult to be caught up by Siamese fighting fish. The striped pattern can also enhance the ornamental value.
Characins that Swim in Schools in the Middle Layer of the Water
Neon Tetras/ Cardinal Tetras: They are small in size and have a strong schooling behavior, which allows them to flexibly avoid attacks. However, attention should be paid to their occasional behavior of nipping at Siamese fighting fish.
White Cloud Mountain Minnows: They have a gentle temperament and are not aggressive, making them suitable for coexisting with Siamese fighting fish.
Bottom-Dwelling Fish
Corydoras Catfish (such as Pepper Corydoras, Golden Algae Eater Corydoras): They are active at the bottom of the fish tank, and their activity area does not overlap with that of Siamese fighting fish. They have a gentle temperament and can clean up leftover food.
Suckerfish/ Chinese Algae Eater: They feed on algae, and the hard spines on their body surface can defend against the attacks of Siamese fighting fish, while also maintaining the water quality.
Other Compatible Fish Species
Guppies: It is necessary to select individuals with smaller tails and less vivid colors, and provide enough hiding spaces.
Long-Tailed Zebra Fish: It requires an adaptation period in the initial stage, and can coexist peacefully in the later stage.
II. Key Points of Attention for Cohabitation
Configuration of the Fish Tank
Space Requirements: Each fish requires at least 1 liter of water. A large fish tank of more than 38 liters is recommended, and shelters such as hiding houses and aquatic plants should be set up.
Water Quality and Temperature: Keep the water temperature between 20°C and 30°C, and maintain a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline water quality. Change the water regularly.
Observation of Behavior and Control of Density
In the initial stage of cohabitation, close observation is required. If any attacking behavior is found, isolate the fish immediately.
Avoid high-density farming to reduce the risk of fighting.
Management During Special Periods
Female fish may be more aggressive during the breeding period, so it is necessary to select individuals with a gentle temperament.
Avoid cohabiting Siamese fighting fish with long-tailed varieties such as Half Moon Betta fish, as they are likely to get injured.
Summary: Successful cohabitation requires combining the habits of fish species, space planning, and continuous management. It is advisable to give priority to selecting varieties that have a fast swimming speed, a gentle temperament, and complementary activity areas.