Whether female bettas can be kept with other fish depends on a combination of their species traits and environmental management. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
I. Feasibility of Mixed Tanking
Female Siamese (Thai) Bettas
Their aggression is lower than that of males, but they still have territorial instincts. The following conditions must be met:
Tank size of at least 80 cm (with a water volume of 40 liters or more); a density of 5 or more fish is recommended to .
Dense aquatic plants (such as pothos, hornwort) and hiding spots like clay pots are necessary.
Female Chinese Bettas
They are relatively gentle, and group keeping has a higher success rate, but note the following:
Avoid mixing with long-finned fish (such as guppies).
Bottom-dwelling fish like cory catfish and plecos can be paired with them.
II. Recommended Tank Mates
Small tetra species: Fast-swimming, similarly sized fish like neon tetras and cardinal tetras.
Mid-level swimmers: Active but non-territorial fish such as zebra danios and platies.
Bottom-dwellers: Fish like cory catfish and plecos, which avoid overlapping activity areas with bettas.
III. High-Risk Combinations
Guppies: Their long fins are easily mistaken for other bettas, leading to a mortality rate exceeding 80% within a week.
Two female bettas: Even those from the same litter may fight over food or territory.
IV. Key Management Measures
Environmental Optimization
The water must be equipped with a filtration system, and the water temperature should be maintained at 26-28°C.
Cover 30% of the water surface with duckweed to reduce conflicts.
Dynamic Monitoring
Isolate aggressive individuals and feed high-protein food in separate portions.
Females must be isolated individually during the breeding period.