Betta Fish and Guppy Rivalry: How to Make Them Coexist Peacefully! (2024)

Tropical Betta fish, bettas, and guppies are two of the most popular species. Both native to Southeast Asia, these fish are known for their striking colors, flowing fins, and lively personalities. However, while many aquarists would love to keep bettas and guppies in the same tank, it can be challenging due to their different requirements and temperaments.

In this article, you will explore the differences between bettas and guppies, examine the factors that affect their compatibility, and provide tips on successfully keeping bettas and guppies together in one aquarium. Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or a beginner, you’ll find helpful information on creating a harmonious environment for your bettas and guppies.

amazon store official logo for fishyfishpet
Shop Todays Best Pet Deals!
Enjoy huge savings, fast delivery, and high-quality products - Last Used 3 mins ago.
Enjoy huge savings, fast delivery, and high-quality products - Last Used 3 mins ago. Show Less

Betta Fish and Guppies: A Quick Comparison:

Betta Fish and Guppies A Quick Comparison

Betta fish, or Siamese fighting fish, are some of the most striking and colorful fish you can keep in an aquarium. As we explain, these anabantids have long, flowing fins and a specialized labyrinth organ that allows them to breathe air from the water’s surface.

However, male bettas are naturally aggressive and fight with other males or fish they perceive as a threat. Female bettas can also be aggressive, although usually less so than males.

On the other hand, guppies, are peaceful and social fish that come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. These livebearers give birth to live fry and are often kept in schools of six or more. Whether you are interested in male or female bettas or male or female guppies, we have valuable information to help you keep your fish healthy and happy.


Can Betta Fish Live With guppies?

Many aquarium enthusiasts are curious about the possibility of keeping Betta fish and Guppies together. However, Betta fish can be aggressive towards other male Betta fish and fish with long, flowing fins, which Guppies possess. 

Can Betta Fish Live with Guppies

In contrast, Guppies are peaceful and prefer to live in groups. Monitoring their behavior closely is vital to prevent attacks if you keep them together. Using a tank divider is an option for added security.


Understanding Betta Fish Aggression:

Betta fish are known for their aggressive behavior, which is why they are often called “Siamese fighting fish.” Male bettas fight aggressively to defend their territory and mating rights in their natural habitat. This aggression can also be directed toward other fish, including guppies.

Betta fish are known for their aggressive behavior, and there are several reasons why they may become aggressive toward other fish, such as guppies. These include:

Understanding Betta Fish Aggression
  • Territorialilt

    Betta fish are territorial and will defend their space aggressively. They may perceive guppies as intruders and attack them.

  • Competition for resources:

    Betta fish can become aggressive if they feel that their food or hiding spots are being taken by other fish.

  • Breeding behavior:

    Male Betta fish can become aggressive during breeding season when trying to attract females.

Understanding these causes of betta fish aggression is crucial if you consider keeping them with guppies or other fish. While some bettas may be more docile than others, monitoring their behavior and separating them if necessary to prevent harm to other fish in the tank is important.


Signs of aggression in Betta fish:

To ensure the safety of your other fish, it’s crucial to recognize the signs of Betta fish aggression. Here are some common signs to look out for:

Signs of aggression 
in Betta fish
  • Flaring:

    Betta fish may flare their fins and gills to make themselves look bigger and more intimidating.

  • Attacking:

    Betta fish may chase and nip at other fish, especially their fins.

  • Puffing up:

    Betta fish can puff themselves up, making themselves look larger and more dominant.

  • Hiding:

    Betta fish may hide in plants or decorations in the tank, waiting to ambush other fish.

If you notice any of these signs, separating the Betta fish from the guppies immediately is crucial. Betta fish aggression can lead to severe injury or even death of the other fish. Despite their aggressive tendencies, Betta fish and guppies can coexist peacefully in the same tank with proper care and attention.


Factors That Affect Betta Fish and Guppy Compatibility:

Keeping Betta fish and guppies together in the same tank can be possible. Still, certain factors must be considered to ensure their compatibility and a peaceful environment for both species. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

Factors That Affect 
Betta Fish and Guppy Compatibility
  • Tank Size and Shape:

    The size and shape of the tank are crucial in Betta fish and guppy compatibility. Betta fish require enough space to establish their territory, while guppies prefer to swim in schools. A tank size of at least 10 gallons is recommended, with ample hiding places and a swimming room.

  • Number of Fish in the Tank:

    Overcrowding can lead to stress and aggression in both Betta fish and guppies. It’s best to follow the general rule of one inch of fish per gallon of water and avoid overstocking the tank.

  • Types of Plants and Decorations:

    Plants and decorations in the tank can provide hiding places for both Betta fish and guppies. However, choosing plants and decorations that won’t damage their delicate fins is essential. Live plants, silk plants, and smooth decorations are good choices.

Tips for Introducing Betta Fish and Guppies:

Can Betta Fish Live with Guppies ezgif.com webp maker 74 1

When it comes to introducing Betta fish and guppies, it can be a bit challenging, but with a few tips from the Betta fish and Guppy, the process can be much smoother. Before introducing Betta fish and guppies, make sure the fish tank is fully set up and cycled to ensure optimal tank conditions.

These easy-to-care-for fish tend to thrive in slightly acidic water. In contrast, guppies tend to prefer slightly alkaline water, so it’s vital to ensure that the water parameters are suitable for both tank mates. 

When it’s time to acclimate the fish to their new environment, it’s essential to do so slowly to avoid shocking their systems. Start by floating the bags containing the fish in the tank for at least 15 minutes to allow the temperature to equalize, then gradually add small amounts of water from the tank to the bag every 10-15 minutes for about an hour.

Finally, transfer the fish from the bags to the tank using a net, and avoid introducing unwanted bacteria by not dumping the bag water into the tank. 

By following these tips, you increase the chances of successful cohabitation and ensure that your bettas get to live with guppies in a peaceful fish tank.


Signs of a Peaceful Betta Fish and Guppy Tank:

Betta fish and guppy expert emphasizes the importance of observing the behavior of Betta fish and guppies once they are introduced to the same tank to ensure peaceful coexistence. Here are some behaviors to look for in a peaceful aquarium when these two fish are kept together in one tank:

Signs of a Peaceful Betta Fish and Guppy Tank
  • The fish swim together without showing any signs of aggression towards each other, such as nipping or chasing.

  • Betta fish and guppies eat together without issues, taking in fish flakes or other types of food.

  • Guppies swim and interact freely throughout the tank without appearing stressed or intimidated, while Betta fish do not exhibit any signs of aggression, such as flaring or attacking the guppies.

  • The fish are healthy and happy, showing bright and vibrant colors, being active and swimming around the tank, and not displaying any signs of disease or malnutrition.

It’s important to note that keeping two fish, like Betta fish and guppies, in the same tank requires appropriate tank conditions, such as having a tank size of at least one gallon per two fish and ensuring that the water is suitable for both types of fish.

Betta fish thrive in slightly acidic water, whereas guppies prefer somewhat alkaline water, so it’s crucial to maintain optimal water parameters. Betta fish also tend to be easy to care for, and some types of Betta fish, like delta Betta fish, can live peacefully with other fish, like guppies.


Potential Problems with Solutions:

Potential Problems with Solutions
  • Aggression:

    If you notice that your Betta fish is attacking your Guppies, you should immediately separate them. You can do this by transferring the Betta fish to a separate tank or using a divider to separate them within the same tank.

  • Disease:

    Fish can be susceptible to various diseases, and introducing new fish to an existing tank can increase the risk of disease. To avoid this, make sure that any new fish you present to your tank are healthy and quarantine them in a separate tank for a few weeks before adding them to your main tank.

  • Water Quality:

    Poor water quality can cause stress, disease, and even fish death. Test your tank water regularly and perform routine water changes to maintain optimal water quality.

  • Overcrowding:

    Overcrowding can lead to stress and aggression among fish, so it’s essential to make sure that your tank is clean. Generally, you should have at most one inch of fish per gallon of water.

  • Incompatible Tankmates:

    Not all fish are compatible, so it’s important to do your research before adding new fish to your tank. Some fish may be too aggressive, while others require different water conditions or dietary needs.


The Importance of Proper Care and Maintenance:

The Importance of Proper Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance are crucial to ensure the health and happiness of your Betta fish and Guppies. Here are some essential tips to help you take care of your fish and maintain a healthy aquarium:

How to care for Betta fish and Guppies

  • Tank Size & WaterQuality:
  • Feeding &
    Nutrition:
  • Tank Environment:
  • Disease Prevention:
  • Ensure you have a suitable tank size for the number of fish you have.

  • Betta fish require a minimum of 5 gallons of water, while Guppies can do well in a 10-gallon tank.

  • Maintaining good water quality is essential by performing regular water changes, cleaning the tank and filter, and monitoring the water parameters.

  • Betta fish are carnivorous and require a high-protein diet, while Guppies are omnivores and can feed on flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods.

  • Ensure you provide a balanced diet and avoid overfeeding, which can lead to health problems and poor water quality.

  • Both Betta fish and Guppies need an environment that provides hiding places, plants, and decorations.

  • It’s essential to select suitable plants and decorations that do not harm your fish or affect water quality.

  • Ensure that the temperature, lighting, and pH levels are ideal for the fish you have.

  • Betta fish and Guppies are susceptible to fin rot, ich, and velvet diseases.

  • Monitoring your fish’s behavior and appearance for signs of illness and providing prompt treatment is essential.

  • Ensure you quarantine any new fish before adding them to your main tank to prevent the disease from spreading.

  • Betta fish may eat smaller fish in the same tank, so avoid keeping them with another fish.

  • Guppies are also easy to care for and can coexist with other peaceful fish in the same tank, like delta bettas or another betta that is not aggressive.


Best Practices for Maintaining a Healthy Aquarium:

Best Practices for Maintaining a Healthy Aquarium

To ensure a healthy and harmonious environment for your Betta fish and Guppies, it’s crucial to follow some best practices:

  • Perform regular water changes to maintain good water quality.

  • Clean the tank and filter regularly to remove debris and waste.

  • Monitor water parameters such as temperature, pH, and ammonia levels to ensure they are within the suitable range.

  • Feed your fish a balanced diet and avoid overfeeding, as it can cause health problems and poor water quality.

  • Provide suitable plants and decorations that do not harm your fish and improve their living environment.

  • Quarantine new fish before adding them to your main tank to prevent the spread of disease.

  • Monitor your fish for signs of illness and provide prompt treatment to prevent further complications.

  • Avoid overcrowding the tank and maintain a suitable tank size for your fish.

  • Remember that not all fish in your tank will get along with each other, so it’s essential to choose compatible tankmates carefully.

  • Betta fish, including delta Betta, tend to be easy to care for but research their specific needs and preferences to ensure optimal health and happiness.

By following these best practices, you can provide a comfortable and safe home for your Betta fish and Guppies and enjoy watching them thrive and flourish.


Conclusion

Creating a peaceful coexistence between Betta fish and Guppies requires attention to several key factors. Ensuring suitable tank conditions, keeping the tank clean, and monitoring your fish’s behavior for signs of stress are crucial steps. It’s important to note that while Guppies can eat Betta food, a Betta would not be able to consume Guppy food.

 Additionally, while keeping a single Betta with a group of Guppies is possible, Bettas are more aggressive than Guppies, and caution should be exercised when introducing them. Halfmoon Betta and female Bettas are generally more compatible with Guppies than other Betta types.

Ultimately, with proper care and attention, Betta fish and Guppies can live harmoniously with other fish in your tank

FAQ’s

Will Betta Kill Guppies?

Betta Fish can kill guppies but will they kill them depends on several factors such as the Betta’s temperament, tank size, and the number of fish in the tank can all play a role in determining whether Betta fish will kill guppies.

Betta fish are known to be more aggressive towards fish with long and colorful fins, which they may mistake for another Betta fish. On the other hand, guppies are generally peaceful fish and can coexist with Betta fish if the Betta is not too aggressive.

To ensure a harmonious environment for all fish in the tank, providing ample hiding places, plants, and decorations is crucial to reduce stress levels and give the fish a sense of security.

If you plan to add a Betta fish to a tank with guppies, Bleher recommends a slow and careful introduction process. Adding the Betta fish suddenly may trigger aggression towards the guppies, resulting in injuries or even death

Additionally, maintaining good tank conditions is critical for the health and well-being of all the fish in the tank. Regular cleaning and monitoring of water parameters can help ensure a healthy environment for Betta fish and guppies alike.

Do Betta Fish Eat Guppies?

Certainly! Betta fish are generally known to be aggressive and may eat guppies if they feel threatened or hungry. However, whether Betta fish will eat guppies or not depends on various factors, such as the temperament of the Betta fish, the size of the tank, and the number of fish in the tank.

Although Betta fish can be aggressive towards other fish, including guppies, they can still live with other fish if proper planning and preparation are in place. One of the critical factors to consider when adding a Betta fish to a tank with guppies is the temperament of the Betta.

To maintain a peaceful environment, providing plenty of hiding places, plants, and decorations is essential to reduce stress levels and give the fish a sense of security. It’s also important to introduce the Betta fish slowly and carefully to minimize the chances of aggression towards the guppies.

Furthermore, providing the Betta fish with a suitable diet is critical to prevent them from attacking other fish in the tank. Betta fish are carnivores and require a protein-rich diet. Feeding them small amounts of high-quality pellets or frozen food twice daily can help prevent them from attacking other fish in the tank.

In summary, Betta fish can be aggressive toward guppies but can coexist peacefully if the proper steps are taken. It’s crucial to understand the factors that influence Betta fish aggression, provide a suitable environment with hiding places, and feed them an appropriate diet. Introducing the Betta fish slowly and maintaining good tank conditions is also essential for the health and well-being of all fish in the tank.

Can Betta Fish Kill a Guppy Fish?

Yes, Betta fish are known for their aggression and may attack and kill guppies. However, it depends on several factors, including the temperament of the Betta fish, the size of the tank, and the number of fish in the tank.

As fish keepers, it’s important to understand that Bettas are aggressive fish and prefer to live alone. Therefore, having more than one Betta fish in a tank is not recommended, as they can become territorial and aggressive towards each other and other fish in the tank.

Betta fish can live with other small fish, including guppies, but it requires careful planning and preparation. One of the critical factors to consider when adding a Betta fish to a tank with guppies is the temperament of the Betta. Bettas tend to be more aggressive towards other fish with long and colorful fins, which they may mistake for another Betta fish.

Another important factor to consider is the size of the tank. A small tank can increase aggression as fish may feel more territorial and cramped. A good rule of thumb is to have at least a 10-gallon tank for a Betta fish and a small group of guppies.

Moreover, providing plenty of hiding places, plants, and decorations is crucial to reduce stress levels and to give the fish a sense of security. Additionally, introducing the Betta fish slowly and carefully to the tank can minimize the chances of aggression towards the guppies.

Can Guppies and Betta Stay in the Same Tank?

Guppies and Betta fish can live in the same tank, but several things must be considered before adding them together. Betta fish are known for their aggression and may attack and kill other fish, including guppies if certain factors are present.

However, whether Betta fish will attack guppies or not depends on several factors, including the temperament of the Betta fish, the size of the tank, and the number of fish in the tank.

To ensure a harmonious environment, providing plenty of hiding places, plants, and decorations is essential to reduce stress levels and give the fish a sense of security. Moreover, it’s crucial to introduce the Betta fish slowly and carefully to the tank to minimize the chances of aggression towards the guppies.

Guppies are generally peaceful fish and can coexist with Betta fish if the Betta is not too aggressive. Female Betta fish are usually less aggressive than males and may be a better choice for keeping with guppies. Additionally, feeding them a suitable diet can help keep the peace.

To give your guppies the best chance of living with a Betta fish, keep only one in the tank and maintain good tank conditions, including water quality and temperature. It’s also important to monitor the fish closely and be prepared to separate them if necessary.

Additionally, keeping only one Betta fish in a tank, choosing female Betta fish, and maintaining good tank conditions are essential for the health and well-being of all fish in the tank. Guppies and Betta fish can get along with other fish and live in the same tank with proper care.

How To Set Up The Ideal Tank For Guppies And Bettas

Setting up an ideal tank for guppies and bettas can be challenging, but it’s certainly doable with proper planning and preparation. If you’re considering keeping guppies and bettas together, you should keep a few things in mind to ensure that both species thrive in the same tank.

Firstly, tank size is crucial. A larger tank is always better as it provides more swimming space and reduces the likelihood of aggressive behavior. A 10-gallon tank is a good starting point for keeping guppies and a single Betta fish. It’s important to note that if you have a larger tank, you can add more fish to it.

Secondly, both guppies and bettas like to have hiding places, so it’s crucial to add plants, decorations, and other structures to create a natural environment. Live plants are also beneficial; they help maintain good water quality and provide hiding spots.

Thirdly, water conditions are important. Guppies prefer slightly alkaline water with a pH of 7.0-7.2, while Betta fish like slightly acidic water with a pH of 6.5-7.0. It’s also essential to maintain the correct water temperature – between 74-82°F for guppies and 76-82°F for Betta fish.

Fourthly, tankmates are also a critical factor to consider. Guppies are generally peaceful fish and can coexist with Betta fish if the Betta is not too aggressive.
However, keeping only one Betta fish in the tank is important, as multiple Bettas can become territorial and aggressive towards each other and other fish in the tank.

Fifthly, feeding is also essential. Guppies are omnivores and need a balanced diet of plant matter and protein, while Betta fish are carnivores and require a high-protein diet. Feeding both types of fish the right food to maintain their health is crucial.

Lastly, if you plan to add a Betta fish to a tank with guppies, it’s important to do it slowly and carefully to minimize the chances of aggression towards the guppies. Introducing the Betta fish to the tank in a separate container and monitoring its behavior closely for several days before adding it to the main tank is recommended.

Keeping guppies and Betta fish together in the same tank is possible but requires proper planning and preparation. Providing the right tank size, decor, water conditions, tankmates, and diet can help create a healthy and peaceful environment for all fish. Moreover, it’s crucial to add only one Betta fish to the tank and monitor its behavior closely to ensure the well-being of all fish in the tank.

Can Betta Fish Live With Guppies Peacefully? 

Bettas, or Siamese fighting fish, are colorful aquarium fish with long, flowing fins popular among aquarists. Guppies, on the other hand, are small, easy-to-keep fish with bright colors that make them ideal for beginner aquarists. Here are some things to think about when deciding if you want to keep bettas with guppies:

Aggression: Betta fish can be aggressive, especially towards other fish with long, flowing fins like guppies. However, not all bettas are aggressive; some may coexist peacefully with guppies. If you’re planning to keep bettas with guppies, it’s crucial to choose a betta with a calm demeanor and avoid aggressive individuals.

Tank Size: The size of the tank is a crucial factor in determining whether bettas can live with guppies peacefully. A larger tank will provide more space for the fish to swim and hide, reducing the chances of aggressive behavior. Having at least a 10-gallon tank for keeping guppies and a single betta is recommended.

Water Parameters: Guppies and bettas have different water parameter requirements. Guppies prefer slightly alkaline water with a pH of 7.0-7.2, while bettas like slightly acidic water with a pH of 6.5-7.0. It’s important to maintain the proper water temperature between 74-82°F for guppies and 76-82°F for bettas.

Tank Mates: Guppies are generally peaceful fish and can coexist with bettas if the Betta is not too aggressive. However, keeping only one betta fish in the tank is important, as multiple bettas can become territorial and aggressive towards each other and other fish in the tank.

Feeding: Guppies and bettas have different dietary requirements, and feeding them the right food is vital to maintain their health. Guppies are omnivores and need a balanced diet of plant matter and protein, while bettas are carnivores and require a high-protein diet.

In summary, betta fish can live with guppies peacefully under the right conditions. A suitable tank size, water parameters, tank mates, and diet can help create a healthy and peaceful environment for all fish.

How Many Betta and Guppies Should Be In Your Tank

There are several important factors to consider when it comes to keeping guppies and bettas together. We advise that one of the most common questions in this situation is how many species to keep.

The size of your tank will determine how many fish you can keep. A larger tank will provide more swimming space and hiding spots, reducing the likelihood of aggressive behavior. As a general rule of thumb, a 10-gallon tank is the minimum recommended size for keeping 3 guppies and a single betta.

The gender ratio is another crucial factor to consider. When keeping guppies, it’s best to have a male-to-female balance of 1:2 or 1:3 to prevent the males from becoming too aggressive toward each other or the females. In the case of bettas, it’s best to keep only one male Betta per tank, as male bettas can become territorial and aggressive towards other males, including guppies.

Aggression is also a factor to take into account. Betta fish are known to be aggressive and may attack other fish with long, flowing fins, such as guppies. However, not all bettas exhibit aggressive behavior; some may coexist peacefully with guppies. Choosing a betta with a calm demeanor and avoiding aggressive individuals is crucial.

Lastly, it’s essential to maintain suitable water parameters for both species to ensure their health and well-being. Guppies and bettas have different water parameter requirements, including pH, temperature, and hardness levels.

In conclusion, the number of bettas and guppies you can keep together in a tank depends on several factors, including tank size, gender ratio, aggression levels, and water parameters. Keeping a single male betta with a small group of female guppies in a 10-gallon tank can be suitable for many aquarists. However, it’s crucial to monitor the behavior of all fish closely to ensure their safety and well-being.

Do Betta fish fight with Guppy?

Yes, Betta fish may fight with guppies if the Betta is aggressive or feels threatened. While Betta fish can live with other fish species, including guppies, there is always a risk of aggression and potential harm to the guppies.

Male Betta fish are likelier to behave aggressively toward other fish, including guppies, especially those with long, flowing fins. Female Betta fish are generally less aggressive but may still display territorial behavior toward other fish.

If you want to keep Betta fish and guppies together, you can do a few things to increase the likelihood of peaceful coexistence. First, make sure the tank is large enough for both species and provides plenty of hiding places and swimming space. A tank of at least 10 gallons is recommended.

Second, avoid keeping male guppies with male Bettas, as this can lead to aggression between the two males. Instead, keep a male Betta with a small group of female guppies, ideally in a ratio of 1 male Betta to 2-3 female guppies.

Lastly, closely monitor the behavior of all fish in the tank, especially during the first few days of introduction. Consider separating the fish or adjusting the tank setup if you notice signs of aggression, such as fin-nipping or chasing.

How long can Betta fish and Guppy live together

Many aquarium enthusiasts wonder how long bettas and guppies can coexist in the same tank without conflict. Whether or not they get along depends on the individual Betta’s behavior and temperament so there is no clear answer. While some bettas can live peacefully with guppies, others may attack and even kill them.

It’s also best to avoid pairing male guppies with male bettas, as this can lead to aggression between the two. Instead, consider keeping a single male betta with a small group of female guppies, in a ratio of one male Betta to two or three female guppies.

Lastly, keep a close eye on the behavior of all your fish, particularly in the first few days after introduction. Signs of aggression, such as fin nipping or chasing, may indicate that you must separate the fish or adjust your tank setup.

While bettas and guppies can coexist for a long time, there is always a risk of aggression that could harm your fish. By providing an appropriate tank setup, avoiding certain gender combinations, and monitoring behavior closely, you can increase the likelihood of a peaceful and happy tank environment.


member

Heiko B.

Author


Hello there! Heiko B. at your service, a passionate writer for FishyFishPet – your go-to online source for all things fish
keeping. Our website is designed to help fish owners understand the best practices for taking care of their aquatic companions
covering everything from selecting the right stand for your tank to choosing the perfect filter system. Whether you’re new to the
hobby or an experienced aquarist seeking to expand your knowledge, FishyFishPet is the perfect resource for you. We
appreciate your visit and hope that you find all the information you need to make your fish-keeping journey a success. Thank
you for choosing FishyFishPet!

1 thought on “Betta Fish and Guppy Rivalry: How to Make Them Coexist Peacefully! (2024)”

Leave a Comment