Betta fish—those vibrant, fin-flaring showstoppers—are some of the most eye-catching fish around. But with their beauty comes a big misconception: that they must live alone because they’re aggressive. While Bettas are definitely territorial (especially around other flashy fish or rival males), that doesn’t mean they can’t have tank mates! With the right setup and the right companions, your Betta can coexist peacefully in a thriving community. Let’s dive into how to pick the best tank mates while keeping your Betta happy and stress-free!

THE GOLDEN RULE: START WITH SPACE

Spoiler alert: they can’t.

To introduce tank mates, your Betta needs room to breathe—figuratively and literally.

This gives everyone space to do their thing without stepping on each other’s fins.

More space equals happier fish, so don’t skimp on tank size!

TANK MATE TRAITS: WHO MAKES THE CUT?

Aggressive fish? Hard pass. Look for chill companions that won’t stir the waters.

Flashy fins and bright colors might make your Betta think it’s competition.

Quick fish can dodge a curious Betta.

Species that hang out at the tank floor help avoid territorial disputes.

THE BEST TANK MATES FOR BETTAS (10+ GALLONS)

Mystery snails are peaceful, algae-munching tank cleaners that help keep things tidy without bothering your betta. But whether they work in your tank depends on your betta’s personality—some ignore them, while others see their antennae as a snack.

WILL THEY WORK IN YOUR TANK?

If your betta is chill, a mystery snail can be a great low-maintenance tank mate. But if your betta is territorial, they might nip at the snail’s antennae, stressing it out. Plenty of hiding spots (plants, driftwood) and a larger tank (10+ gallons)help keep the peace.

SANDY SUBSTRATE IS A MUST

A soft sand or smooth gravel substrate is best—coarse gravel can damage their delicate foot as they glide along. 

 

Nerite snails are hardy, efficient algae-eaters that help keep your tank spotless. They’re peaceful, stay out of your betta’s way, and won’t overpopulate—but whether they thrive depends on your betta’s attitude.

 

WILL RHEY WORK IN YOUR TANK?

 

If your betta is calm, a nerite snail is a great addition. But if your betta is feisty, it may nip at the snail’s antennae, causing stress. A 10+ gallon tank with hiding spots (plants, driftwood) helps ensure a peaceful setup.

 

SANDY SUBSTRATE IS A MUST

 

A soft sand or smooth gravel substrate is best—rough surfaces can damage their foot.

 

Only keep one nerite snail per tank since they produce a lot of waste, and while they lay eggs, they won’t hatch in freshwater, so no surprise snail explosion!

 

 

SHRIMP

 

 

Shrimp are hardworking, peaceful, and great little cleaners, munching on algae and leftovers. But whether they thrive in a betta tank depends on your betta’s personality—some ignore them, others see them as a snack. Neocaridina Shrimp, Ghost Shrimp or Amano Shrimp work well!

 

WILL RHEY WORK IN YOUR TANK?

 

If your betta is chill, shrimp can make great tank mates, sticking to the bottom and keeping things tidy.

But if your betta is aggressive, they might end up on the menu.

Adding plenty of hiding spots (plants, moss, driftwood) can help shrimp stay out of sight.

 

SANDY SUBSTRATE IS A MUST

 

A fine sand or smooth gravel substrate is best—shrimp love to forage, and rough edges can damage their tiny legs. 

 

 

A fine sand or smooth gravel substrate is best—shrimp love to forage, and rough edges can damage their tiny legs. Start with a small group (5+), but be ready with a backup plan if your betta doesn’t play nice!

 

 

THE BEST TANK MATES FOR BETTAS (20+ GALLONS)

 

CORRYDORA CATFISH

 

 

Corydoras catfish are peaceful bottom-dwellers that help keep your tank clean by scavenging leftover food.

 

Pygmy Corys (Corydoras pygmaeus) or Bronze Corys (Corydoras aeneus), make great betta buddies—but avoid Panda Corys.

 

WHY NOT PANDAS?

 

Panda Corys are more sensitive than other species and need super stable, oxygen-rich water—harder to maintain in a betta tank.

Instead, go for hardier options like Bronze or Pygmy Corys.

 

SANDY SUBSTRATE IS A MUST

 

Corys use their whisker-like barbels to sift for food, and rough gravel can injure them.

Fine sand keeps them safe and happy. It’s also great for live plants – so if that’s your plan, it’s a win-win!

 

 

For best results, keep at least 6–8 Corys in a 20-gallon+ tank—they thrive in groups!

 

KUHLI LOACHES

 

 

Kuhli Loaches are like tiny, aquatic noodles that love burrowing in the sand and munching on leftovers—keeping your tank tidier without bothering your betta.

 

WHY THEY WORK?

 

They’re super chill, stick to the bottom, and don’t invade your betta’s space. Plus, they’re nocturnal, so they’re most active when your betta is winding down.

 

SANDY SUBSTRATE IS A MUST

 

A soft, sandy substrate is a must—sharp gravel can hurt their delicate bellies. 

 

Since they hate being lonely, keep them in groups of at least 6 in a 20-gallon+ tank for happy, wiggly loaches!

 

 

ROSY LOACHES

Rosy Loaches are small, speedy, and full of personality—the perfect low-maintenance cleanup crew that won’t bother your betta. They love to zip around in groups, keeping things active without being a nuisance.

 

 

WHY THEY WORK?

 

They’re peaceful, non-nippy, and stick to the bottom, making them great betta tank mates. Plus, their subtle red and gold tones add a nice contrast without stealing the spotlight.

 

SANDY SUBSTRATE IS A MUST

 

A fine sand substrate is best—they love to sift and dig, and rough gravel can damage their tiny mouths.

 

Keep them in groups of at least 8 in a 20-gallon+ tank, with plenty of plants and hiding spots to keep them happy and active!

 

 

HARLEQUIN RASBORAS

 

 

Harlequin Rasboras are calm, colorful, and betta-approved. They school together mid-water, keeping things lively without stressing out your betta.

 

WHY THEY WORK?

 

They’re non-nippy, fast enough to avoid trouble, and their shimmering orange-and-black look adds a pop of color to your tank. Plus, they thrive in the same warm, slightly acidic water as bettas.

 

Keep them in groups of at least 8 (they’re happier together!) in a 20-gallon+ tank with plenty of swimming space. A few plants? Even better.

 

CELESTIAL PEARL DANIOS

 

These stunning, starry-speckled swimmers add a touch of magic to your tank. Peaceful and petite, they school mid-water without stepping on your betta’s fins—literally.

 

WHY THEY WORK?

 

They’re calm, fast, and non-nippy, making them great neighbors for a betta. Plus, their deep blues and golden spots pop against dark substrates, giving your tank serious cosmic vibes.

 

Keep them in groups of at least 8 in a 20-gallon+ tank with fine gravel or sand and plenty of plants for cover. A mix of open swimming space and hiding spots keeps them feeling safe and looking spectacular!

 

UNSUITABLE TANK MATES: COMMON MISSTEPS

 

Not all tank mates are a match made in fishy heaven.

Here are the ones that might make waves—and not in a good way:

 

They might seem like a classic pairing, but goldfish need cooler water and way more space than a Betta can provide.

These notorious fin-nippers spell trouble for Betta’s delicate fins.

You’ll often see people say Neon Tetras and bettas can live together—but in reality, it’s a gamble. While some bettas tolerate them, many tetras (including Neons) aren’t as “peaceful” as advertised and can cause problems.

FIN NIPPERS

Species like Serpae, Black Skirt, and even Neons may see your betta’s flowing fins as a snack.

TOO FAST & HYPER

Tetras are constant swimmers, which can stress out a slower-moving betta.

Different Water Needs

Some, like Cardinal Tetras, prefer softer water, while others, like Black Skirts, need cooler temps.

Their bright colors and flowing fins scream “attack me” to a territorial Betta.

Even if a species seems harmless, always do your homework. Compatibility isn’t just about the fish—it’s about the environment too.

Cichlids are feisty, territorial, and just as competitive as bettas—which means nonstop fights in anything but a huge (and I mean huge!) tank. Even so-called “peaceful” cichlids get aggressive, especially when breeding.

COMMON ASSUMPTION: LET’S SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT

This is a one-way ticket to Fight Club. Male Bettas will brawl, and even females can be territorial unless kept in very specific conditions (think: large tanks, lots of plants, and at least five females).

Not necessarily! Betta aggression varies. Some are laid-back; others are divas. Keep a close eye and be ready to make adjustments.

Even in a spacious 20-gallon tank, some species are just a bad idea. Fin-nippers or overly flashy fish will stress your Betta out.

Some species also need vastly different water conditions than Bettas. Remember – it’s not just about the fish, it’s about the environment too!

A lush, planted tank with hiding spots (like caves and driftwood) gives everyone a sense of security.

Introduce tank mates gradually and keep an eye on interactions. Separation might be necessary.

Bettas are food hogs. Use sinking pellets or stagger feedings to ensure bottom-dwellers get their share.