Betta Splendens…community fish…?

[NannaLou]

I’m always surprised by the number of threads that ask about mixing a (specifically male) Betta with other fish in a community tank.

When I did my research I didn’t find anything to support this; in my mind, from my reading they are a solitary species.

However, I have just Googled the phrase, “Are Betta Splendens community fish” and I am shocked to see the top response, from PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), stating, “Many people mistakenly believe that betta fish must be kept in “solitary confinement.” Female bettas can live together, and while male bettas will fight with other male bettas, they can be placed singly in a “community” aquarium containing other species of fish”.

 

[FF_Member146894]

sometimes you can, it just depends on the betta's temperament and tank size.
obviously, you'd be limited to a number of tankmates, such as fish faster than the betta or no long fins.
i wouldn't get emotionally attached to any fish you mix with a betta, too.

 

[Slaphppy7]

It can be done, but as alluded to above, it all depends on the betta's temperament and personality.

I'd recommend anyone attempting a betta in a community tank have a back-up plan (extra tank, rehome) if it doesn't work out, which most of the time, it won't, IME...

 

[Byron]

The comment cited from PETA just shows how little some people understand fish habitats and behaviours. To risk a fish just to hopefully prove established fact and wisdom wrong is not intelligent, and it is more in the line of cruelty to the fish.

You can risk smoking a pack of cigarettes a day and believe you will be among the few who apparently do this and don't get cancer, but that is not the majority. Research the needs of the fish and expect normal behaviour for the species and provide for their needs accordingly. That is humane fish keeping.

 

[Sgooosh]

The comment cited from PETA just shows how little some people understand fish habitats and behaviours. To risk a fish just to hopefully prove established fact and wisdom wrong is not intelligent, and it is more in the line of cruelty to the fish.

You can risk smoking a pack of cigarettes a day and believe you will be among the few who apparently do this and don't get cancer, but that is not the majority. Research the needs of the fish and expect normal behaviour for the species and provide for their needs accordingly. That is humane fish keeping.

peta sometimes isnt the best place for info, it is sometimes true sometimes exxagerated...

 

[NannaLou]

peta sometimes isnt the best place for info, it is sometimes true sometimes exxagerated...

No, I would say not in this instance, but it is the first reply that came up and added to the fact the are a well known organisation… It goes back to constant reminder that not everything on the internet it true.