Angelfish & Bettas are both popular choices for aquarium enthusiasts, but if you are wondering whether they can be kept together in the same tank, this article is for you. Here, I will answer a fascinating question: can Angelfish live with bettas, and if yes, what are the things you need to keep in mind?
In this article, you will learn the factors that must be considered before keeping them together and tips for successfully maintaining a tank with both species. But before I tell you all this, let’s begin with the first question: can Angelfish live with betta fish?
Can Angelfish Live With Bettas?
No, Angelfish can be kept with bettas. Both are considered aggressive species and may attract each other, especially in breeding seasons. In certain scenarios, they may coexist peacefully, like if you provide a large tank or both are raised together from a young age. Careful monitoring & proper acclimatization may help.
Talking about the natural habitat & behavior of both Angelfish & Bettas, Angelfish (Pterophyllum spp.) originate from the Amazon River basin, whereas Bettas (Betta splendens) are native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand.
In addition, bettas are admired for their vibrant colors and aggressive tendencies, but Angelfish are known for their graceful appearance & peaceful nature. No doubts both are very intriguing pets that any aquarist will want to keep.
However, as I told you earlier, you shouldn’t keep them together. Housing both species together is possible because Angelfish prefer to swim in the middle & upper levels of the tank. In contrast, bettas are:
- Labyrinth fish.
- Meaning they pose a unique labyrinth organ.
- Allowing them to breathe air directly from the water’s surface.
A friend of mine tried keeping both species together and observed some fascinating things.
As you know, Angelfish tend to occupy the upper regions of the tank. This creates a beautiful display with their long fins and looks amazing due to their elegant swimming patterns.
On the other hand, when he observed Bettas, they exhibited a territorial nature, especially among males, who can be quite aggressive towards other fish, including Angelfish. However, there are a few certain in our use where you can peacefully keep Angelfish and better face together. Therefore let’s take a quick look at those scenarios.
When To Keep Them Together?
Large Tank With Lots Of Hiding Places
You must provide plenty of hiding places, like caves, plants, & driftwood. This will not only help both species to establish their territories but also reduces aggression. I recommend getting a tank size of 30 gallons or more to provide enough space for both fish to coexist comfortably.
Many people have been noticed keeping angelfish and betta fish together in spaces 50-gallon tanks, but it requires experience. If you are thinking of doing the same, you will need to create dense vegetation and caves, allowing each species to claim its space & reducing the chances of conflicts.
Raised Together From A Young Age
It has been frequently observed that Aquarius, to keep the specials together in a tank from a very young age, tends to exhibit reduced aggression towards each other. However, you should know that this behavior is attributed to the familiarity developed during the early stages of their lives.
Hence, If you’ve also raised Angelfish & Bettas together from a young age, they might have already formed a more harmonious relationship. On the other hand, consider introducing both species together to increase the chances of successful cohabitation.
Careful Monitoring & Proper Acclimatization
If you plan to keep them together in the same tank, you must observe the behavior of both species when introducing them. If you notice any aggression or stress, it is best to separate them immediately.
Proper acclimatization becomes very important when introducing two different types together, like gradually introducing each species to the tank environment, which will further help minimize stress. I will advise you to monitor their behavior for several days and notice any signs of aggression.
If you find them coexisting peacefully, consider monitoring their well-being by providing optimal food and care. However, you should also note that there is a huge chance that your betta fish & Angelfish will not get together. Yes, there are a few situations where you should never introduce or keep them together in the same tank.
When Not To Keep Them Together?
Small tanks or Insufficient Space
You should know that lack of space will always lead to heightened stress and territorial disputes. This is why you must provide them with a large tank. If you have a small tank, Angelfish and Bettas may feel confined & become more aggressive.
Therefore, providing them with an adequately sized tank is crucial to maintain a peaceful environment and prevent any increased aggression or stress-related behaviors.
Aggressive or Territorial
Suppose you find any of your species displaying aggression or territorial behavior towards the other. In that case, I highly advise separating them immediately to avoid potential harm or stress. To know about angelfish aggressiveness, read: Are Angelfish Aggressive?
You should know that even a single aggressive individual can disrupt the whole tank & its harmony. Angelfish has also been frequently noticed relentlessly attacking resident Betta, causing stress & injury. For peaceful community tank, choose one of the 7 Best Tank Mates For Angelfish.
Mismatched Water Parameters & Incompatible Tank Mates
You already know that Angelfish & Bettas tend to have specific water parameter requirements. Therefore, if you fail to keep up with their needs or their needs differ significantly from vastly different pH ranges for Angelfish, it can lead to stress and health issues.
Please consider reading my recent article on pH for Angelfish. In addition, I will advise you to avoid going with incompatible tankmates with either species, as it can result in aggression & unrest. To be on the safe side, get familiar with 7 Bad Tank Mates For Angelfish.
3 Factors to Consider Before Keeping Angelfish & Bettas Together
If you decide to keep Angelfish & bettas in the same tank, I will advise you to consider all the major factors you can. Since many factors must be considered, I mention the most common and vital ones here.
Tank Size & Setup
As I told you earlier, you must provide them a big time. Both species will need ample space to swim and establish their territories. Therefore I recommend you have a tank size of at least 30 gallons to provide enough room for both species. To setup 30 gallon tank, read: How Many Angelfish In A 30-Gallon Tank
This is not limited to these species only. No matter what kind of different species you are planning to keep together in the same tank, you should take this precaution and set up the tank properly. You should also know that a larger tank allows for better separation of territories & reduces the overall chances of conflicts.
Water Parameters & Temperature Requirements
Even though many people say that both species require the same level of PH, it’s not entirely true. If you notice closely, you will find a slide difference in the need for pH between both species.
Generally, Angelfish thrive in slightly acidic water with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0, whereas Bettas prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH around 7.0. however, the temperature requirement of both species is almost the same.
Ensure you maintain the temperature between 75°F & 82°F for both species. If you provide them stable & suitable environment, you will increase the success rate of making both species coexist. Learn everything about “Angelfish Water Temperature” from this guide.
Aggression Levels & Territorial Behavior
Even though Angelfish is considered to be generally peaceful, they can also become territorial during breeding. On the other hand, you should note that Bettas, especially males, tend to have a propensity for aggression—male bettas or more likely to exhibit territorial behavior towards other fish, including Angelfish.
Therefore, I recommend that you closely monitor their interactions to prevent any potential harm effectively.
3 Tips for Successfully Keeping Angelfish & Bettas Together
Tank Setup Recommendations
Firstly, purchase a larger tank of at least 30 gallons or more that can provide an ample amount of swimming space & territories. You should know that a larger tank is very effective in reducing overall territorial disputes and allowing for better territory separation.
In addition to the large tank, it is also important that you incorporate caves, plants, and driftwood to create territories and hiding spots for both species. This will further help provide all the species a sense of security, which will reduce their anxiety and stress levels as well.
Apart from the decoration, you must also provide them with basic needs. Ensure you are installing a suitable filter and performing regular water changes to maintain optimal water quality. Also, make sure to use clean & healthy water that can promote the well-being of both Angelfish and Betta.
Water Parameters & Temperature Considerations
As I told you earlier, you need to temperature between 75°F-82°F in the tank, which meets the requirements of both Angelfish & Bettas.
You should also monitor the temperature inside their tank because certain situations or extreme temperatures can cause negative effects on your fish, resulting in stress and compromising their health. Also, regularly test the water perimeters and use the right water conditioner to achieve the desired pH level & water quality.
Tank Mates Compatibility
Rather than Betta fish, you can house many peaceful and non-fin-nipping tank mates with Angelfish like Corydoras, catfish, or peaceful tetras. These pieces are also known to get along with data fish as well.
Choosing the right tank mate will help you avoid aggressive or territorial fish that may provoke conflicts. In addition to this, the balance is also important. Therefore you should make sure that you are introducing tankmates that are of similar size to avoid predatory behavior or bullying.
Also, ensure you put only a few in a tank at a time, as they may result in stressful situations leading to territorial fights. Also, make sure that you consider the tankmate swimming habit to avoid overcrowding and excessive competition for space.
Conclusion
Even though both species can potentially live together, you must consider their compatibility, tank size, water parameters, and suitable tank mates. You must provide them with a spaces tank with ample hiding places.
Generally, people usually avoid keeping angelfish and betta fish together at the same time to prevent aggression as well as accidents. However, if you plan to keep them together, make sure to monitor their behavior & ensure suitable water conditions for their well-being.
I’ve given my best to give you all the information on the question: ‘Can angelfish & betta fish live together.’ If you find this article helpful, then consider sharing it. Your share will not only help people learn the question,
‘Can angelfish and betta fish get along’ but also helps them learn tips g guidelines discuss in this guide to increase the chances of a successful & harmonious tank with both Angelfish & Bettas. Do check my other helpful guide on Angelfish shared on this website. See you in the next post. Till then, take care, and goodbye.
