Bettas are known for being elegant and low-maintenance fish, capable of surviving in tanks with very minimal prerequisites. However, they are also very notorious for being very bad tankmates, due to their selective breeding that induces aggression. Even so, some aquatic animals can actually coexist with fighting fish if you provide optimal tank conditions in your One Chuan Grove home. Here are 4 of the most recommended and safe co-inhabitants for your betta fish.
Snails
Snails, being slow-moving, peaceful, and hard-shelled creatures, naturally pose zero threat to bettas whatsoever, even cleaning up after the tank and the fish. Bettas, on the other hand, willingly play around with these gastropods, which is why it is much more recommended to have tougher-shelled and low-profile snails, such as the nerite snail.
Shrimp
Shrimps are very flexible in matching with the tank theme, consisting of dozens of different colors and types. They act best in groups, efficiently cleaning up the waste and algae. Overall, they aren’t significant in affecting the water quality because of their small size. Just ensure you have lots of hiding spots for these critters, as they are usually slow-moving and are easy prey for your opportunistic betta.
Corydoras
Corydoras, typically much preferred in schools, are cleaner fish that typically dwell on the bottom, avoiding multiple conflicts with fighting fish because they generally stick around at the surface. They also share the same water temperature requirements as bettas, meaning sustaining both animals will be easy. However, like shrimp, they also need hiding spots in case of territorial aggression, hunger, or curiosity.
Neon Tetras
If you are opting for a safe and friendly tankmate purely for aesthetic looks and need for less cleaning, the neon tetra is perfect. While they must be kept in groups (to reduce aggression) and require hiding places, they have identical conditions for water temperature, have a peaceful disposition, and are rather too quick to be caught.