Betta Fish Community Tank Guide: Compatible Species & Tips
1. Top-Level Swimmers (Fast & Agile)
Zebra Danios
Black-and-white striped bodies with rapid swimming speed to evade betta aggression.
Peaceful temperament and highly adaptable to various tank conditions.
Molly Fish
Vibrant colors and strong disease resistance. Quick movement reduces conflict risk.
Pair with live plants for added shelter.
Moonfish (Platy)
Social schooling behavior; their active top-level swimming complements bettas’ mid-level territory.
2. Mid-Level Swimmers (Peaceful Schooling Species)
Neon Tetras/Boesemani Tetras
Small schooling fish that distract bettas when kept in groups.
Require at least a 10-gallon tank for proper space.
Short-Finned Guppies
Choose breeds with compact tails (not long, flowing fins) to avoid betta fin nipping.
Agile swimmers that thrive in community setups.
3. Bottom-Dwelling Species (Territory-Isolating)
Bristlenose Plecos
Bottom-feeding nature with tough, armored bodies for defense.
Help clean algae and detritus from the tank floor.
Corydoras Catfish/Algae Eater Catfish
Stay strictly in the lower tank zone, avoiding spatial conflict with bettas.
Hardy, peaceful, and tolerant of varying water conditions.
4. Critical Community Tank Rules
Tank Size: Minimum 40 cm (10 gallons) to reduce territorial disputes.
Hiding Spots: Load the tank with live plants, driftwood, and rocks for shelter.
Quarantine Period: Monitor new additions for 3–7 days; remove aggressive individuals immediately.
Water Parameters: Maintain 24–28°C (75–82°F), pH 6.5–7.2, and regular water changes.
Species to Avoid
Other bettas (especially males)
Slow-moving fish (e.g., young angelfish)
Fish with bright, flashy colors or long fins
With the right tank mates and setup, you can create a harmonious community that keeps your betta calm and your tank lively!