Can Bettas Live With Algae Eaters?

Betta fish, such as the Siamese fighting fish, are aesthetically beautiful but behaviorally problematic. Common belief holds that bettas must be kept singly; they may attack virtually any other life in a tank. These bellicose fish can indeed coexist peacefully with other animals, including algae eaters, who can maintain a tank's cleanliness.

  1. What Makes a Good Betta Companion?

    • In general, suitable betta mates will not take after the betta in coloration; similar pigmentation could spark rivalry between the creatures. These mates will not be prone to nipping fins or show other signs of aggression. They can use the same water conditions as those needed for bettas, namely with a pH balance of 6.5 - 7.5, and between 72 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Betta fish are normally kept in tanks no bigger than 10 gallons; the best algae eaters will fit into such tanks without taking up too much additional room.

      Betta owners should always exercise their own judgment, however. An exceptionally belligerent betta will not tolerate any tank mate whatsoever. More even-keeled fish could potentially fare well even with guppies (dull colored types, never the vibrant and colorful ones).

    Plecos

    • Some plecos, which eat algae, are ideal to house alongside bettas. Clown plecos, rubber lipped plecos, and bristlenose plecos are all diminutive (greatest length is 5 inches); they also feature tough scales which can withstand an occasional incident of betta aggression. One pleco in particular should never accompany bettas -- the common pleco. At a possible 2 feet in length, these fish grow to be entirely too large for the 10-gallon tanks associated with bettas.

    Snails

    • Snails' tough shells make them outstanding algae eaters to abide with bettas. Both snails and bettas require excellent water quality and frequent water changes. Never use products containing copper with snails, as it can cause them great damage. Apple snails are particularly good with bettas. Owners should maintain a proper tank size for this particular pairing; a size of at least 5 gallons for one betta and snail is ideal. Pick your Apple snail species with care, as some will munch on healthy plant growth.

    Shrimp

    • Two types of shrimp are especially good at both devouring algae and dwelling with bettas. Ghost shrimp have transparent bodies, making them difficult for a betta to aggress or eat. Red cherry shrimp retain a petite size of one single inch. What's more, they produce extremely little waste, meaning that you could support up to 10 of the shrimp per tank gallon. Key to grouping these shrimp with bettas are providing adequate cover to hide in, and also feeding your betta very well; it may eat a shrimp otherwise.