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Is this setup possible?
Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2025 7:32 pm
by petalux9
I've got a 20 gallon tank with a Fluval 207 filter, sand substrate, and a bunch of Java Fern. I wanna add 6 Neon Tetras and a Betta. Will they get along or is this a bad idea?
Re: Is this setup possible?
Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2025 8:11 pm
by finleyoak
Neon Tetras and Bettas can work, but it depends on the Betta's temperament. Some are chill, others will chase anything that moves. How's your tank decorated? Lots of plants and hiding spots help reduce aggression.
Re: Is this setup possible?
Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2025 8:21 pm
by flux_42
Yeah, I tried this once and my Betta went full Rambo on the Tetras. Maybe start with just the Tetras and add the Betta later if they seem calm?
Re: Is this setup possible?
Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2025 9:15 pm
by angleri
finleyoak wrote: ↑Sat Jun 28, 2025 8:11 pm
Neon Tetras and Bettas can work, but it depends on the Betta's temperament. Some are chill, others will chase anything that moves. How's your tank decorated? Lots of plants and hiding spots help reduce aggression.
Agreed. Also, make sure the Tetras are established first. A new Betta in an existing Tetra group is less likely to cause issues.
Re: Is this setup possible?
Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2025 9:51 pm
by lavonda
I've had success with this combo, but my Betta is super laid-back. Maybe try a female Betta? They're usually less aggressive than males.
Re: Is this setup possible?
Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2025 10:21 pm
by petalux9
Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try adding the Tetras first and see how it goes before introducing the Betta.
Re: Is this setup possible?
Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2025 10:36 pm
by finleyoak
Good plan. Keep an eye on water params too, especially with new fish. A 20 gallon should handle the bioload fine, but better safe than sorry.
Re: Is this setup possible?
Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2025 11:09 pm
by flux_42
And maybe feed the Betta a bit extra before adding the Tetras. A full Betta is a happy Betta, less likely to mess with tankmates.
Re: Is this setup possible?
Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2025 11:22 pm
by angleri
flux_42 wrote: ↑Sat Jun 28, 2025 11:09 pm
And maybe feed the Betta a bit extra before adding the Tetras. A full Betta is a happy Betta, less likely to mess with tankmates.
Solid tip. Also, dim the lights when introducing new fish to reduce stress.
Re: Is this setup possible?
Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2025 11:34 pm
by lavonda
Yeah, and don't forget to acclimate them properly. I've seen too many people just dump fish in and wonder why they're stressed.